Spirit and His word can transform lives, which gave me the desire to be equipped as a lay Biblical counselor. God also provided women who discipled me, and challenges that helped me grow and mature spiritually. Then, after a Job-like season, God called me into women’s ministry at HCF.

Joshua 1:9 – “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” When the LORD takes me out of the comfortable and familiar, and puts me in the uncomfortable or unknown, it helps to trust that God will not only give me the strength and courage that He calls me to have, but that I’ll never face anything alone. God goes with me and His Spirit dwells in me.

For fiction, I like Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Emma, etc. I read mainly nonfiction and I like historical books and christian authors that help me grow. Paul David Tripp’s Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands and New Morning Mercies devotional are some favorites.

I like a mix: classic rock - especially with great harmony like The Eagles’ "Seven Bridges Road", opera - like Josh Groban and Andrea Bocelli, R&B/soul - like Marc Broussard, instrumental - like Chris Botti and George Winston, jazz/pop - like Michael Bublé’ and Diana Krall, and other ‘popular’ classical music. Various Christian artists - like Mercy Me’s "Word of God Speak" and JJ Week’s Band "Let Them See You" are favorites.

Family plays a vital role. My brother and sister are wonderful godly mentors. My mom displayed Jesus' love, wisdom, generosity, and devotion, and she had a beautiful, childlike faith that was simple and uncomplicated. She was encouraged by her children’s walk with Christ to take her first Bible study when she was in her 70’s. My father was absent a lot due to his service in Air Force Special Ops, but he loved his family and was committed to teaching us integrity and resilience. I believe he came to faith before he was killed in a plane crash when I was fifteen. Other mentors were dear friends who lived out the faith that they professed. I learned a lot from them.

I’d say that I’m an extroverted introvert. I love being with people, but quiet and time alone is important and helps me re-charge. The mountains are my favorite place for restoration and relaxation.

I love a great ribeye steak…with potatoes and a Caesar salad of course! I guess that’s a meal, not a food.

Patient

I love dinners with small groups of family/friends, hiking in the mountains and ending the day with a delicious meal and a beautiful view. Also, I enjoy funny movies or epic ones where the good guys win, and reading.

LOVE! I love my church, my pastors and worship team, our HCF family, and the privilege of being a small part of what God is faithfully and graciously doing in the lives of our church and our community.

We love Dena, and are so grateful she is on the ministry team at HCF!