Vickey has been a dear friend and ministry partner for two decades. As such, I’ve had the privilege of watching her in and out of some of the most joyful and heart-breaking seasons of her life. In a recent heart-to-heart conversation, we looked back on a devastating season and she candidly shared the wisdom she has learned along the way.
In 2006, Vickey’s life turned upside down when, in their very small family, they lost three loved ones in a matter of two months. As Vickey moved through the natural stages of grief, they also lost two family pets, her father was diagnosed with terminal cancer, she lost her ministry, and through it all she was battling daily chronic pain.
Life was crushing her on every level and Vickey found herself in new territory. As a woman who for decades had been sharing God’s truth with other women, she found it hard to even keep her thoughts straight, but His stored-up-words came to her mind and rescued her. Precious truths from the pages of scripture, once deeply believed now came fully alive as they were experienced in her bones, sustaining her daily. She printed off and carried words of hope with her, renewing her mind when panic, fear or despair crept in.
Along with the personal intimacy Vickey experienced with God, she also learned priceless lessons as to how we can care for those hurting in our spheres. From what not to say to how to help with practical needs and offer continued prayer and support, Vickey had a front-row seat to what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus. In her opinion, the most meaningful thing we can offer a grieving friend is to be present: sit with them, hold them, pray for them and over them.
It’s clear in the way Vickey loves and leads those around her that the truth and healing power of God have left her forever marked...and I’m so thankful the women of Council Road get to call her ours.
Be sure to check out the entire interview with Vickey by using the link below or go directly to Uniquely Beautiful Stories on iTunes, episode 11.
Click the podcast link below to listen:
Meet the Author!
Heather McAnear is a wife, mom, author and speaker with a passion for sharing God's truth to help women understand their uniquely beautiful design and how to use it for God's glory! She loves teaching young married couples with her husband, homeschooling their three children, traveling the world, enjoying good chocolate and long conversations in coffee shops. CRBC has been her church home for two decades and she is thrilled to be part of the Women's Ministry team, helping women connect with each other and grow in their walk with Jesus!