Jessi W.

Jessi speaks to us today about seeing ourselves as temples of the Holy Spirit, the writings that remind her that it’s all going to be okay and how God makes us free.

Jessi W.

Inspiring biblical passage of the moment: I’ve always been comforted and humbled by the knowledge that we are the temple of the Holy Spirit, Himself. That’s why I’m currently encouraged by 2 Chronicles 7:16, which says, “For I have chosen this Temple and set it apart to be holy – a place where My name will be honored forever. I will always watch over it, for it is dear to my heart.”

Spiritual growth focus at the moment: Accepting where God has placed me for this moment of life, and maturing in this place. With one year of high school left, it’s easy to have a restless spirit, but I’m trying to remember that every day left at home is a blessing, a chance to grow closer to Him.

Profession: I’m a professional videographer/photographer.

A one sentence bio of yourself: Simply a girl fighting to love and serve the Lord with my whole heart and soul, and hoping to inspire/encourage others along my journey.

When did you first encounter God? I’ve been raised in a Christian home, being baptized and everything, and had always claimed Christianity as my faith, when in reality, I had no relationship with the Lord whatsoever. However, after a series of events, I truly felt God’s power June of 2016, and shortly thereafter devoted my life to Him.

What has helped you grow spiritually in this season? Solitude and study. I’m currently coming out of a season of being alone; yet while it sounds terrible, it truly was a blessing. I never would know God as I know Him now, if I hadn’t gone through this time; because when you’re in quiet place in life and it’s just you and God, you slowly but surely learn to trust Him, and His plan for you completely.

“I never would know God as I know Him now, if I hadn’t gone through this time.”

Just read/currently reading (and what has it taught you?): *laughs* To be honest, besides my Bible, I don’t read many books, now-a-days. However, occasionally I’m able to read some poems out of Storyteller by Morgan Harper Nichols. Her writings always inspire and comfort me, with a recurring theme of, “It will all be okay.”

“Her writings always inspire and comfort me, with a recurring theme of, ‘It will all be okay.’”

Top three essentials: My guitar, a notebook/pens, and my Bible.

How did God speak to you recently? A few weeks ago, I was getting discouraged as far as creativity goes. I wasn’t able to write how I truly felt, which is always frustrating. As I was driving home one day God simply spoke to me and said, “Don’t forget why you write.” And it reminded me that yes, He was the reason I began blogging and penning poems, and He will be the reason I will continue. I have a message of Hope to share, and I will continue doing that by His strength.

Hobby: Playing the guitar. Music speaks in a language beyond description, and is such a wonderful way to draw closer to God. I believe we were created with a yearning to worship and praise our Creator, and it’s why I love spending time playing music, even if for a few minutes a day.

Top three practical tips for staying spiritually strong: One, study the Bible. Reading the scripture on your own is incredibly important. It nurtures our soul, reminds us of His promises, and helps us mature in our faith. There are beautiful, wonderful things to be found within the pages of Scripture.

Two, community. Fellowship with other Christians is so important, as well. I’m so blessed to have a Godly group of friends willing to pray and encourage one other in their walks with the Lord.

Lastly, prayer. It may seem difficult at first (it definitely was for me), but it will get easier with practice, I promise. There is no greater blessing than to be able to openly communicate with the Father.

Favorite person in scripture? Jesus, Himself. He set a perfect example for us to follow; He was Love, embodied. Whenever you read of Him, your eyes are always opened up to something new about Him.

“Whenever you read of Him, your eyes are always opened up to something new about Him.”

What do you want people to learn about God when they look at you? I want others to see and understand how freeing a relationship with God is. I want them to know that this smile on my face comes straight from the fact that I know God is holding and leading me in every moment, that through Jesus, every chain that once held me back has been broken. I’m free.

“I’m free.” 

Favorite season? Spring. Daily watching for all the greenery and the blooms to appear, seemingly overnight, is one of my favorite things in this world.

Favorite holiday? Thanksgiving, definitely.

A dream you have? I hope, in the months to come, to use the talents He’s given me in a ministry somewhere. I’m passionate about creating things that inspire people and open their eyes to His glory, and I hope to combine music, media, and writings to make that happen somehow.

A special tradition you and your family engage in or keep: Every Christmas, we always go to a nearby town to get pizza and view Christmas lights. It might not seem like much, but it is to me. As they say, it’s the little things in life!

Question you will ask when you get to heaven? I’m honestly not sure about that, *laughs*. I’ll probably just be satisfied with finally being Home!

Thing you want to raise awareness about: Suicide/depression. It’s pandemic in today’s world, especially among teenagers. I’ve been through seasons of depression, and I want everyone I meet that is dealing with that to know that they are not alone, and that by His strength and love they can and will get through it.

What do you usually do before 9 a.m.? Starting at 6 a.m., I get ready for the day, feed our animals, and enjoy a cup of coffee while I do my Bible study. I consider them the most treasured and important hours of my day.

What is on your nightstand? Poetry books, pen, journal, and my phone.

Define Christianity in a sentence: An empowering, freeing relationship with the Creator of everything beautiful and holy.

For more Jessi:

Insta: @joyfullyadventurousblog

Blog: https://joyfullyadventurous.com/

Until next time, keep witnessing!

XOXO