2023 is the year of hope-filled expectations. As I sought the Lord for Impact Coaching Ministries' goals moving forward, clarity and direction were undeniably God-appointed. One affirmation after another arrived in totally unforeseeable ways and from surprising sources. But that is so like our God. His faithfulness record is proven even when we have yet to understand the plan or picture. This is faith, when our trust is tested and proven in challenging situations--even when we are not sure how we will survive the fires. Does this ring a bell with you right now in the circumstances you are facing?

2022 was the most challenging year I think I have ever faced. My life has always had some incredible challenges that carved me into the person, by the grace of God, that I am today. Truth be told, through health issues and blunt-force relational traumas, I found myself not wanting to live. At times, I even thought death would be a welcome relief. Truth be told, I wanted to hide away in the cave just as Elijah did. For almost a year, that cave was my safe place. Then the Lord sent a word asking, "Carolyn, what are you doing here? It's time to come out of the cave." My response was hesitant, but how could I resist His caring, consistent interventions? Through answered prayers, renewed worship that had waned so low, and a sense that He wasn't finished with me yet, he called me out of the cave.

As her coach and cheerleader, one of my clients asked me to do something I had never done before. I had planned to say no because I had so much going on, but I didn't want to disappoint her. But the Lord had other plans. She had discovered such freedom and healing in the year we walked together, surprising me and catching the attention of her best friend. Because of this significant and sustained change, the Lord directed her and my client to host a women's event called "Witness." This event will be held at Hope Fellowship Church. Several of my clients attend Hope Fellowship in New Hampshire. I even had the privilege of worshipping with these sweet brothers and sisters in 2022. My client Carolyn and her friend Karen are the organizers of this event. Little did they know just how quickly it would sell out.

On January 7th, we will see the Lord do amazing healing and hunger-creating transformations. I believe it will take months to fully process what our Lord is about to do. Three beautiful women of faith will share their stories of His amazing transformation in their lives. An awesome worship leader will usher us into the Lord's healing presence. This is our God, who does exceedingly and abundantly above all we can ask or think.  

2023 is a new start for me and maybe for you as well. If you find yourself in the ditch of despair or depth of depression, wondering how you can move forward or even hope for change, maybe it's time we connect and walk forward together. Courage is taking the challenge to choose and to reach out, not knowing what the results may be. There is always hope and always help. Just ask this coach, who needed His help in her darkest hour. He made a way when there seemed to be no way because He is The Way-maker. Connect today.