My name is Deborah
The name Deborah means “bee” in Hebrew, symbolizing industriousness, a strong sense of community, courage, and the nurturing spirit of a mother. These meanings resonate deeply with my life’s purpose and journey.
I have experienced God’s grace in ways that have transformed my life. During a complicated pregnancy, when I needed Him the most, He showed up, held my hand, and walked with me through every challenge. His faithfulness was evident in the safe delivery of my child, the most precious gift I could ever receive. In my marriage, family and friendships, I witnessed His hand at work, bringing us closer together and strengthening our bonds.
Lying on my hospital bed, in a moment of deep vulnerability, I made a decision to follow God wholeheartedly and to tell the world of His good works. There were days when I didn’t feel His presence or hear His voice, but looking back, I can confidently say He was still working behind the scenes, orchestrating everything for my good. Through this journey, I also saw and experienced the other side of my family and friends. They created a safe space for me, offering support and love in ways that I had never fully appreciated before.
This experience has deepened my appreciation for my loved ones and solidified my commitment to God. He held my hand through the darkest valleys and guided me with His unwavering love and grace. I’ve made a decision to never let go of His hand, trusting Him to lead me through all of life’s journeys. So help me God.
Just like a flower, I am blossoming. Reflecting on my life, it mirrors the stages of a flower’s growth: from Seed Germination to Seedling Growth, Vegetative Growth, Budding, and finally Flowering.
Each stage represents a part of my journey, as expressed in Ecclesiastes 3:1,
“To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.”
I am still blossoming, and I know He is preparing me for a bigger picture. I aspire to be His agent for pollination, spreading His love to others, just as 1 Peter 4:10 encourages us to use whatever gift we have received to serve others.
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 1 Peter 4:10
If I were a flower, I would be a combination of a Dahlia and Gladiolus. Dahlia is one of the most beautiful flowers I have ever seen and my current favorite. Every layer contributes to its beauty, just like my life, which I believe has many layers gradually unfolding, adding to the beauty of my journey in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 3:16-18):
16 But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. 17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18 And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate[a] the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:16-18
A combination of the gladiolus and dahlia flowers beautifully represents my personality. Here’s why this blend is particularly fitting:
- Strength and Resilience (Gladiolus): The gladiolus symbolizes strength and integrity, which resonate with my ability to stand firm in my convictions and face challenges with grace. It reflects my commitment to remaining steadfast and resilient in all aspects of life.
- Inner Strength and Diversity (Dahlia): Dahlias represent inner strength, resilience, and a rich complexity of character, mirroring my multifaceted personality. My journey has shown that, like the dahlia, I embrace and reveal different layers of myself, contributing to my growth and beauty.
- Elegance and Honor (Both): Both flowers embody elegance and dignity, qualities I strive to uphold. They symbolize the grace I aim to bring into my interactions and the honor I seek in living out my faith.
- Beauty and Determination (Both): The striking beauty and determination of both flowers reflect my passion and drive. Like these flowers, I aspire to inspire others through my actions and unwavering commitment.
- Symbolic Depth: The combination of gladiolus and dahlia captures the depth of my character—my strength, resilience, and the evolving layers of my personality. Just as these flowers together create a rich and vibrant display, my attributes combine to form a deeply inspiring and powerful presence.
In sharing my journey, I hope to inspire you to recognize and embrace the grace of God in your own life. Just as flowers bloom in their own time and season, we too are on a unique path of growth and transformation. Remember that each stage of your life is a crucial part of God’s divine plan, and His timing is perfect. As you navigate through your own seasons, I encourage you to remain steadfast in faith and trust in His love and guidance.
Reflect on the words of Jeremiah 29:11:
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
This verse has been a cornerstone in my life, reminding me that God’s plans for us are filled with hope and promise, even when we face challenges and uncertainties.
Together, let us blossom in His love, reflecting His glory and spreading His grace to the world around us. Embrace your journey with courage and faith, knowing that God is with you every step of the way. Let your life be a testament to His enduring faithfulness and transformative power.
I pray that my journey encourages you to see the beauty in your own, and to trust that God is continually working in and through you. Stay blessed and continue to blossom in grace.
