Arlishia Y.

Today, Arlishia speaks to us about how God found her in the ER and restored her, and how God is using her, despite her weakness, and how He can use me and you, too.

Inspiring biblical passage of the moment: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what GOD’S will is His good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2

Spiritual growth focus at the moment: Discernment, patience and faith. I’m currently a student at the Bible Seminary in Houston, Texas, so I’m trusting God with what He has planned for me.

Profession: Phlebotomist, I collect blood samples from patients at a medical clinic.

A one sentence bio of yourself: Saved with amazing grace.

When did you first encounter God and how did you encounter Him? I accepted Christ as my personal savior at 10 years old, at Lilly Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Houston, Texas. My father was the minister of the children’s church then, an inner voice was speaking to me so I walked up and accepted Christ.

In my mid-twenties, I was totally disconnected with Christ, I started partying, drinking and fornicating. I also met my ex-husband; he was physically, emotionally and financially abusive and introduced me to things I promised myself I would not do. Then one night, he beat me up so bad my arm was fractured, and I was admitted in the ER.

Right there in that room, I told God that I was sorry, and I needed His help. I started reading the Bible to build a close relationship with God because my ex-husband was threatening my life, I thought was going to die, and I wanted to secure my salvation. While reading the Bible, I encountered the LORD when I came across the promises of God, and He let me know that I was safe physically and spiritually. The LORD opened my blind eyes and help me to realize that abuse is not the love of God. He freed me from bondage and haven’t  heard or seen my ex-husband since.

“The LORD opened my blind eyes and help me to realize that abuse is not the love of God.”

What has helped you grow spiritually in this season? Going to church, reading my Bible and praying in my prayer closet.

Just read/currently reading (and what has it taught you?): Order My Steps by Sheretta West. It’s a wonderful study on being obedient to GOD’S Word and walking in His Truth.

Top three essentials: My Bible, desk agenda (planner nerd), nail polish.

How did God speak to you recently? Seven years ago, I was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder, so I pondered on how God can use me for His service. During my devotional time, I came across the same scripture in two different daily devotional books, 2 Corinthians 12:9, But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfection weakness” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

Hobby: Reading and watching make-up tutorials.

Top three practical tips for staying spiritually strong: Abstinence, prayer, and studying my Bible.

Favorite person in scripture? Rahab.

What do you want people to learn about God when they look at you? God is a restorer. He was able to restore my broken life regardless of my past mistakes.

“God is a restorer.”

Favorite season? Summer.

Favorite holiday? Easter.

A dream you have? My dream is to minister to women and men [telling them] that Jesus is real.

A special tradition you and your family engage in or keep: We play the game Uno.

Question you will ask when you get to heaven? I would like to ask Jesus what did He write on the ground when the women was brought to Him for committing adultery.

Thing you want to raise awareness about: Domestic violence in Christian homes.

What do you usually do before 9 a.m.?When I wake up, I immediately tell God thank you, send scriptures via text message to my friends, and I have devotional time.

What is on your nightstand? My Bible, Jesus Calling by Sarah Young, Experience the Power of GOD’S Names by Tony Evans, Order My Steps by Sheretta West, My Utmost for His Highest devotional by Oswald Chambers, pens, highlighters, my old iPhone (I use as an alarm clock) and my cellphone.

Define Christianity in a sentence: “Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, it is well, it is well with my soul.” Horatio Spafford

For more Arlishia:

Facebook:Arlishia Y. Smith

Instagram: @arlishia_yvonne

Youtube: Arlishiayvonne

Until next time, keep witnessing!

XOXO