Seeking Discernment and Wisdom

Wow, what an amazing training! The Redemptive Compassion Training from Love INC (In the Name of Christ) was quite a revelation for me. Before I retired, I worked 25+ years in the field of early care and education. Our program primarily served families from the ALICE (Asset, limited income constrained, employed) population and families living in generational poverty. I always ​

Gina Dingman

thought that helping families and how we delivered services was the right way to serve people. It was the way to reach many and to aid in several areas of need. I felt good about the work we did with children and families, but I often wondered about the families who returned year after year to our program. My hope had always been that we had at least given them something which they could hold on to. Something that might move the needle of their lives just a bit.

The six components of the Redemptive Compassion training gave me so much to think about. We are asked to see everyone’s value, to invest relationally in others, to help everyone achieve their God-given potential, to require mutual contribution and participation, while responding with wisdom and discernment, and serve in ways that transform. I am familiar with these concepts and have put most into practice. I know I am not fully living up to what I am called to do. But I do know because I am putting Christ first, He will show me the way.
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As I sit quietly with my thoughts and try to gain a better understanding of the core values and how I can fully embrace this philosophy in my work with the 1st Pres Neighborhood Closet, I am realizing I need to seek discernment and wisdom, the fifth core value. So, I will take time to pray, asking God our Father to send the Holy Spirit to lead me in the right direction.

- I will wait patiently, knowing God hears my prayers and answers them.
John 14:26
- I know that direction will come, and it will be just what is needed at the right time. Mark 11:24

It will be in God’s time.

Through this training, I am gaining a different perspective on being obedient-driven (a servant of God) vs result-driven (just providing service). I am also embracing a new awareness of being the Lord’s servant with a renewed heart for how God calls us to serve people through Biblical holistic help. In this space I feel a presence of peace and joyfulness as I seek and wait on God.
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In His Name,
Gina