Sarah C.
Today, Sarah speaks to us about why seeking focused time in God’s presence is life-changing, her work with Chick-fil-A, her online shop and travel.
Sarah C.
Tell us a bit about how you grew up and your childhood:
I was raised in a Christian home and asked Jesus in my heart when I was three. Yep. Three. I was an only child and my parents chose to homeschool (which as an extrovert I didn’t appreciate at the time), but I believe all the days of being alone really gave my creativity the opportunity to grow.
Spiritual growth focus at the moment:
I often find myself thinking, “people want to hear me being real, not me sounding spiritual.” I’m always thinking of the person who isn’t catching on to all the spiritual lingo, or just wants to figure out how to be a Christian at work. But in the same respect, I’m being challenged to get out of my comfort zone and talk about the deeper things God has shown me. Honestly, it’s a big step of trust in the Lord to help my “deeper” words sound simple and relevant!
Profession:
I worked for Chick-fil-A over a decade! That’s a lot of sandwiches, y’all. I worked as a GM, a financial director, and a trainer for new stores opening. I helped open the first two in Seattle and the first three in NYC! That was some crazy fun I will never forget. Since I’ve been married, I haven’t held a career, but I’ve given my time to volunteering and launching my own platform and online shop.
When did you first encounter God and how did you encounter Him?
I asked Jesus in my heart when I was three. And yes, I did have encounters with the presence of God throughout my childhood. But I would say my realest turning point was age 16. I had just graduated high school, and I went to a summer conference where I was met by the Holy Spirit. I can’t begin to tell you how many tears I cried in that week – of repentance, of worship, of joy. That was really the time that marked me for the rest of my life. The Holy Spirit is so real, and He gives you the joy and the grace to do the work.
What has helped you grow spiritually in this season?
GIVING! You really find yourself growing when you’re committed to help someone else grow!
Top three essentials:
1. Air conditioning. I’m used to coping with Texas heat by blasting A/C – therefore, I’m used to being cold all the time. I seriously do not handle heat (or air without a breeze) well!
Hobby:
Travel – planning out trips and adding more travel hacks to my collection is a big hobby of mine. I also love new creative outlets, so I’m always trying something new – knitting, floral, cooking, calligraphy, you name it!
Top three practical tips for staying spiritually strong:
1. Your time with Jesus. Give quality time every day to be distraction-free, and focus on Jesus. When you see a new side of Jesus, you’re never the same. Those moments count more than all the moments in church services or all the moments reading the Bible out of duty. His presence changes everything.
“Those moments count more than all the moments in church services or all the moments reading the Bible out of duty. His presence changes everything.”
Favorite person in scripture?
Paul is definitely my favorite. He pulls no punches. The man was radical – and shipwrecked, beaten, imprisoned – and never lost his joy. What a dude. I really gravitate toward his writings in the Bible.
What do you want people to learn about God when they look at you?
That His calling doesn’t have to look a certain way. I believe you can be called by God and not have to work in a church. He can use you in ministry wherever you are – business or school or family. Approach your personal passions as ministry opportunities and see how the Lord uses it!
How do you leave your mark on your community?
Personally, I feel like I leave a mark by creating environments. If people feel comfortable, welcomed, at peace, inspired, or even surprised/delighted, that’s already a huge step to letting God work in their lives. If the right elements are in place, conversations happen freely and hearts are more open.
“If people feel comfortable, welcomed, at peace, inspired, or even surprised/delighted, that’s already a huge step to letting God work in their lives.”
Favorite holiday?
Christmas is absolutely at the top of the list. I really enjoy all the music, foods, lights, parties, and weather. I live in Texas, so we always keep hope of a “white Christmas” alive, but it’s never happened!
A goal you have?
One of my life goals has been to build an online platform that brings in passive income, so that I can spend my time volunteering, helping other churches, traveling, and keeping my home open to show hospitality.
A special tradition you and your family engage in or keep:
Peter and I like to travel to a new city every quarter, and try to travel internationally, once a year! Travel has been such a special part of our lives!
I’ve always wanted to try and save all kinds of “20/20” unsolved mysteries in my memory and get answers to all of them in heaven.
What does your morning routine consist of?
Check my phone (emails, notification). It’s so bad, I know, but blue light just helps me wake up. Water and then black coffee. Head to the couch and start my Bible reading plan. If the day doesn’t have an early start, I’ll try to catch a quick morning workout before making breakfast for my husband!
What is on your nightstand?
I keep a YETI full of iced water, a diffuser and soothing essential oils on tap, a home decor book, and a little potion of lotion.
FB: Sarahjoy.tv
Gabriela Yareliz
Gabriela is a writer, editor and attorney. She loves the art of storytelling, and she is based in NYC.
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