Offering what I have with an open heart.
A devotional shared by Karen H.
Meet Karen Hickman! Karen is a registered nurse with over 30 years of experience, and a longtime member of the City Church Chicago family. She and her husband, Ron, joined City Church in 2015 and have been faithfully serving and building meaningful relationships ever since.
With a heart for giving back, Karen has volunteered in schools, her sorority, church ministries, and numerous community organizations. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Salt and Light Coalition, an organization whose mission she deeply believes in. Karen finds joy in encouraging others, sharing the wisdom she's gained through life, and connecting with people across generations.
SCRIPTURE
Luke 6:38
Today’s Encouragement
Have you ever found yourself somewhere you didn't quite fit in, wondering why God had led you there or what you could possibly contribute?
When my husband Ron and I first came to City Church in 2015, we quickly realized we weren't exactly the typical demographic. We had moved from the suburbs to Chicago and were searching for a church plant to call home. God led us to City Church, but initially, we weren't quite sure why.
Then one Sunday, as we were leaving service, something clicked. We weren't the demographic, and perhaps that was exactly why God wanted us there. We had years of wisdom, maturity, and life experience that we could share with a younger church family.
Luke 6:38 reminds us of the importance of generosity and giving. Over the years, I've learned that what we have to offer extends far beyond finances. God has entrusted each of us with gifts, experiences, time, and resources that can make a meaningful difference in someone else's life.
As I began serving on different teams, participating in Life Groups, and helping wherever there was a need, I discovered that God could use gifts I hadn't even realized I possessed. Through serving, encouragement, and giving, I developed friendships with women in completely different seasons of life, and those relationships have become some of my greatest blessings.
Looking back, I can also recognize the women God placed in my own life who poured their wisdom and encouragement into me. Their example showed me what it means to live generously, and now I have the opportunity to do the same for others.
I don't serve for recognition or applause. I serve because I want to be obedient to God's calling and faithfully steward what He's placed in my hands. And I'm continually grateful for the abundance of joy, relationships, and opportunities He's given me along the way.
Sometimes making room for Jesus means recognizing that we already have something meaningful to share. Our wisdom, experiences, encouragement, and willingness to serve can become blessings in someone else's life.
You don't have to wait until you have more to offer. Start with what God has already placed in your hands, offer it with an open heart, and trust Him to use it for His purpose.
A Moment to Reflect
What gifts, experiences, or resources has God entrusted to you that could encourage or bless someone else in this season of life?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for this time with my sisters. Thank you for the words you allow me to share with them. I pray that they will find your calling on their lives and be able to live their lives to the fullest. I pray they will grow in relationship with you and discover the gifts you have for them and be a blessing to others. Amen.
