“Faith in Action: Rachel’s Mission for Clean Water”

Writer: Hadley Thompson
Date: April 15, 2024

Dear Church Family,
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! As we step into a new season, I am excited to share an inspiring story of faith, perseverance, and the power of God’s divine guidance. This month, we highlight the incredible journey of Rachel, a chemist from right here in Flint, Michigan, whose passion for clean water transformed lives and communities.

A Vision for Change
Rachel had always been deeply troubled by the water crisis in Flint. As a chemist, she knew that science could offer a solution, but she also knew that change would require persistence, faith, and the right resources. After countless hours in her small lab, she developed a cutting-edge water filtration system designed to remove contaminants and make water safe for consumption.

However, having an invention and bringing it to the world are two different things. Rachel lacked the funding and connections to scale her system. It was a discouraging time, but she clung to the promises of Scripture:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5

Rachel refused to let obstacles define her journey. Instead, she leaned into prayer, trusting that God would open doors.

Breakthroughs and Battles
With determination, Rachel reached out to local leaders and organizations. She attended town meetings, spoke to city officials, and even knocked on doors to share her vision. Her unwavering faith and persistence paid off—she secured funding to launch a pilot program, bringing her filtration system to families in need.

As word spread, national media picked up her story. Rachel’s work was making a real impact, and it seemed like nothing could stop her.

But then came opposition. A large corporate competitor, threatened by her success, attempted to shut her down. They claimed her methods were flawed and sought to undermine her credibility. It was a moment that tested her resolve.

“Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9

Rachel could have given in to fear, but instead, she chose to stand firm in her calling. She reached out to nonprofits and faith-based organizations, forging powerful partnerships that allowed her to continue her work. Together, they ensured that thousands of people had access to clean water, regardless of the opposition.

An Unexpected Turn of Events
Then, something incredible happened. The very corporation that once sought to shut her down came back—not with another attack, but with an offer. They saw the effectiveness of her system and, rather than fighting against her, they wanted her expertise to improve their own filtration processes. What had once been a battle had turned into a partnership.

God’s ways are higher than our ways. He takes what the enemy meant for harm and turns it for good.

Lessons for Us All
Rachel’s story is a testament to what happens when we trust in God’s plan, remain steadfast in doing good, and refuse to give up in the face of adversity. Each of us has a calling—whether it’s in ministry, business, community service, or our own homes. And like Rachel, we may face setbacks, opposition, and moments of doubt. But we serve a faithful God who honors perseverance and faith.

I encourage each of you to consider: What mission has God placed on your heart? Are you allowing fear or doubt to hold you back? Let Rachel’s story be a reminder that in due season, we will reap if we do not give up.

If you’re looking for ways to learn more about water crises and how you can help, I recommend visiting Water.org, a great resource dedicated to providing clean water solutions worldwide.

Church family, let us continue to trust in the Lord, to press forward in faith, and to be vessels of His love and transformation in the world. May we never grow weary in doing good!

Blessings, Hadley Thompson

Motivation Posts and Books

Free Motivation Book

A short encouragement to motivate you for free.

New Level of Motivation

Would you like to go to a new level of motivation?

A Book about Success

A longer book to explore your inner potential.

Back to Home Page

Lexington, Kentucky, known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” was bustling with its usual charm. The town, a hub for horse breeding and racing, was abuzz with visitors flocking to the famed Keeneland Race Course, and the streets lined with grand mansions and historic buildings in its Victorian neighborhoods. Many people come to this beautiful city to experience its rich history, its cultural significance, and its lively atmosphere. But that night, there was something even greater happening in the heart of Lexington.

A special evangelist meeting had been planned, led by Maria, an inspiring and passionate woman known for her fiery heart for God and her anointing for healing. People from across Lexington and surrounding areas had gathered with anticipation in a beautiful old church building, its tall windows letting in the soft glow of the evening sun. The air was filled with expectancy, a sense that something extraordinary was about to take place.

As people arrived, there was a buzz of conversation, some were quietly excited, while others were overwhelmed with curiosity about the miracles they had heard might unfold that night. Lexington may have been known for its horse racing and historical landmarks, but tonight, it was about to experience a different kind of race—one of spiritual awakening and healing.

Maria stepped onto the stage, her presence commanding yet gentle, filled with the peace of God. She began with a soft, warm greeting, “Good evening, everyone! I am so honored to be here with all of you tonight in the beautiful city of Lexington, the ‘Athens of the West.’ God has such incredible plans for this evening, and I believe He’s about to move in ways that will forever change your lives!”

As she spoke, the crowd quieted down, the room filled with a deep sense of reverence, and eyes turned toward her in eager anticipation. Maria continued, “Now, we know that Lexington is known for its horse racing, its grand plantations, and its impressive historic sights. The beauty of this city with its vibrant neighborhoods and majestic buildings is something to behold, but tonight, friends, we are here to experience something far beyond the physical beauty of our surroundings. Tonight, we are here to encounter the living God, and His power is about to be released in this room.”

The crowd responded with murmurs of agreement and anticipation. Maria’s words echoed in their hearts. They weren’t just here for another evening of socializing or another routine gathering—they were here for an encounter with God, something that could transform their lives.

Maria went on to speak about the power of faith, the authority given to believers, and how healing is part of God’s will for every person. “Just as Jesus healed the sick and cast out demons, He has given us the same power through His Holy Spirit,” she said. “Healing is not just a miracle from the past; it is a promise for today. In every city, in every town, and in every heart, God’s power to heal is still alive and active.”

As she spoke, Maria reminded the crowd of God’s unchanging nature. “In Lexington, the racehorses may speed around the track, but in the Kingdom of God, there are no limits. His power knows no bounds, and tonight, He is moving in this place. He is here to heal, restore, and bring new life to all who will receive Him.”

Maria’s passion was infectious, and the people in the room were beginning to feel the stirring of the Holy Spirit. They could sense that something special was happening. Maria encouraged everyone to open their hearts, to receive the healing that God was offering, and to step into the fullness of His promises.

“Tonight,” she continued, “God is calling you to step into your destiny. He is calling you to experience His power in a new way. You don’t have to leave here the same. If you came in with pain, sickness, or struggles, tonight is your night to be set free.”

There was a moment of silence before Maria invited the congregation to pray. “Now, I want you to open your hearts to God. Close your eyes and believe that His power is here to touch you. Whatever you need, God is able. Whether you need physical healing, emotional healing, or spiritual restoration, He is able to meet you where you are.”

As the crowd prayed, there was a noticeable shift in the atmosphere. The room seemed to buzz with the presence of God. Some people were softly weeping, others had their hands lifted high in worship. The power of God was undeniable. Maria moved through the congregation, laying hands on people, praying for healing, breakthrough, and miracles. People began to receive healing instantly—some experienced physical relief, others felt emotional burdens lifted, and some even reported a deep sense of peace flooding their hearts.

There was a man in the back of the room, a regular attendee of church in Lexington, who had been suffering from chronic back pain for years. As Maria laid hands on him, he felt a warmth spread through his body. In an instant, the pain was gone. He moved his back, twisting and turning, with disbelief and joy on his face. “It’s gone!” he exclaimed, tears filling his eyes. “I feel healed. I feel brand new.”

The crowd erupted in praise and worship as more testimonies poured in. A woman who had been struggling with anxiety for months reported feeling a wave of peace wash over her. A young man who had been battling depression felt the weight lift from his shoulders. One by one, people began to share their encounters with God’s healing touch, and the room was filled with excitement and joy.

Maria, seeing the miracles unfolding, encouraged the congregation to give glory to God. “Friends, this is just the beginning. The healing you’ve experienced tonight is a sign of what God wants to do in your life every day. His power is limitless, and His love for you is unconditional. Walk in that power. Walk in that healing. And believe that God has already given you everything you need to live a victorious life.”

The evening closed with a final prayer of blessing and empowerment. As the people left, many were still in awe of what they had witnessed. Lexington, known for its horses, its history, and its charm, had experienced something far greater that night—the mighty power of God moving in their midst. And the people of Lexington left with renewed faith, healed bodies, and transformed hearts, ready to carry the fire of revival to every corner of their city.

It was a night that would go down in the history of Lexington, Kentucky, not for the horses or the grand mansions, but for the mighty move of God that touched every heart in the room, leaving them forever changed.

In the heart of Fort Wayne, a city located just northeast of Indianapolis and not too far from the Ohio border, a gathering of believers came together for a Bible study. Led by a woman of faith named Riley, this study was more than just a moment to dive into Scripture. It was a time of transformation, empowerment, and reflection on the call that God places on each of His followers to fulfill their divine purpose.

Riley opened the Bible study by acknowledging the beauty of living in a place like Fort Wayne. With its healthy housing market, growing job opportunities, and affordable cost of living, it’s easy to see why so many people consider making this city their home. But Riley reminded everyone that, while these material comforts were gifts from God, they were not the ultimate purpose for which they were placed in Fort Wayne. The true calling was to live for God’s glory and to be used as vessels of His will in this community.

The theme of the Bible study was based on the question: What does it mean to be empowered for a purpose? Riley began by reading from the book of Ephesians, specifically focusing on Ephesians 2:10, which says, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” This verse was central to the discussion. It reminded the group that they were not accidents or afterthoughts, but that God had carefully and intentionally created each of them with a unique purpose and mission. The work they were called to do had already been prepared for them by God Himself.

Riley shared a personal testimony about her own journey to understanding her purpose. She explained that, like many people, she had questioned her role in life, especially in a city that seemed quiet and not as bustling as larger metropolises like Indianapolis. But as she spent time with God in prayer and study, He began to reveal that her purpose was not about the size of the city or the things that others deemed successful. It was about living faithfully in the space she was planted and letting God use her to make a difference. Whether it was through relationships, work, or service in the community, Riley had learned that God had a plan for her life, one that was uniquely hers and perfectly suited to the place He had placed her.

The conversation then turned to the power of community. Fort Wayne, often recognized for its tight-knit neighborhoods and communal spirit, became an example of what the church should look like. Riley explained that living out God’s purpose was not something meant to be done in isolation. Just as Fort Wayne thrived because of its interconnectedness, so too do believers thrive when they are united as the body of Christ. “We are designed to work together, not just as individuals, but as a collective force of love, faith, and action,” she said.

The study then shifted to the idea of empowerment. In Acts 1:8, Jesus told His disciples, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Riley emphasized that the same power given to the disciples was available to believers today. It is not through our own strength or ability that we fulfill God’s calling, but through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. This power enables us to boldly step into the good works God has prepared for us, to live confidently in our calling, and to be a testimony of God’s goodness wherever we go.

As the study progressed, Riley led the group in a discussion about the obstacles that often stand in the way of fulfilling God’s purpose. Many of the women shared personal struggles, such as fear, self-doubt, and the temptation to compare their journey to others. Riley acknowledged that these struggles were real but also reminded everyone that they were not meant to overcome them on their own. The Holy Spirit was their helper, and as they leaned into Him, they would find the strength to face any challenge.

Riley then read from Isaiah 41:10, which says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” This verse became a cornerstone for the group, reminding them that no matter the difficulty, God’s strength would sustain them. Their purpose was not hindered by their fears or weaknesses, for God’s grace was more than sufficient.

The discussion also touched on the importance of prayer and studying the Word of God in order to discern His will. Riley pointed out that God’s purpose is not always immediately clear, but as believers seek Him with their whole hearts, He will reveal the steps they are to take. “God is not in a hurry. He wants us to trust Him, and He will unfold His plan for our lives as we grow in our relationship with Him,” she encouraged the group.

Toward the end of the study, Riley gave the women a practical challenge: to consider the ways in which they could be used by God in their everyday lives. Fort Wayne, like many cities, was filled with opportunities for service, whether through volunteer work, helping a neighbor, or simply offering encouragement to someone in need. “You don’t have to go to a foreign country to make an impact,” Riley said. “God has placed you right where you are, and He has equipped you for every good work.”

The women were encouraged to pray about the areas where they could step into their purpose with confidence. Whether it was at work, in their families, or in their neighborhoods, they were reminded that they were empowered by the Holy Spirit to live out God’s calling in their lives. As they reflected on the message, it became clear that their purpose in Fort Wayne was not just to enjoy the blessings of a thriving city, but to be a living testimony of God’s love and faithfulness in their community.

The study concluded with a time of prayer, as each woman asked God to reveal His purpose for their lives and to empower them to walk in it. Riley prayed over the group, asking for a fresh anointing of the Holy Spirit to fall upon them, that they might be bold witnesses of the gospel in Fort Wayne and beyond.

As they left the Bible study, there was a sense of renewed purpose and empowerment. Each woman walked away knowing that, no matter where they were, God had a plan for them, and with His help, they could fulfill their divine calling.