Rachel is a volunteer with Iron Rose Sister Ministries, living in Searcy, Arkansas.
Rachel, tell us a little about yourself and your family.
I am originally from Memphis, TN, but I have lived in Searcy, AR, since I came to Harding University in 2001. I received my bachelors and Master’s degrees from HU in Early Childhood Special Education, and I currently teach online. I have been married to my husband, Andrew, for just over 3 years, and we have two children: Abigail is 11, and Logan is 8.
I know from our conversations that the Great I AM has really shown up in big ways throughout your life, even when He didn’t feel present. Can you tell us a little about that?
Absolutely! You might notice the numbers of my children’s ages don’t quite match the length of my marriage. I was married to another man for 11 years. We faced great struggles throughout our marriage, and I did everything I could to save it. When he left and filed for divorce, I could not imagine any good coming from my life or situation. The I AM has carried me through many dark seasons by surrounding me with supportive family, friends, and scriptures. I firmly believe that the relationship I have now with Andrew is a deliberate example of how our God can redeem all things, and I am so grateful for that blessing!
What are some of the questions the I AM has answered in your life?
I grew up hearing people say, “God will never give you more than you can handle,” so I felt like I was weak or failing somehow when difficult times seemed overwhelming. When I finally read 2 Corinthians 1:8-9, I was relieved to read Paul’s testimony: “We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself... But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God.” Hallelujah! I cannot handle it all, but He can! Knowing that I can rely on His strength when I have reached my limits keeps me going through the darkest valleys.
How has the I AM provided those answers?
He has used His word to speak Truth to my heart when I was drowning in fear and doubt, just like that passage in 2 Corinthians did. He has also brought other sisters into my life who have been through similar struggles and could share the burden with me.
What direction has the I AM led you through the answers He has provided?
I realize now more than ever the importance of being open and authentic with others. When we are willing to be vulnerable and share our personal struggles, we are more able to reach out and encourage one another through difficult times. I believe that I am created and called to express my faith through love, especially by bringing encouragement, hope, confidence, and passion to the hearts of women through spoken and written words.
Is there a specific Bible verse that has been especially impactful in seeking answers and finding the I AM?
“He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. They confronted me in the day of my disaster, but the Lord was my support. He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me.”
Psalm 18:16-19
Any final words of encouragement to other Iron Rose Sisters?
Remember that you are to love one another always, but there is only One whom you must please! You are enough because He is enough.
Thanks for sharing your story with us!