Taking the Leap of Faith

God Closed the Door, Then Opened Her Purpose

Life often presents us with unexpected turns that require tremendous faith to navigate. Nancy Williams shares her powerful journey of trusting God through professional transitions and personal challenges that ultimately led to discovering her true purpose.

In her mid-forties, Nancy found herself in a season marked by significant loss. Multiple family deaths coupled with a job-related move to a new community had created a challenging period of adjustment for her entire family. Despite these difficulties, Nancy sensed God preparing her for something new. She had accumulated skills, abilities, and experiences that seemed to be preparing her for a greater purpose. This internal hunger for more led her to pursue a master's degree in counseling, building upon her existing teaching credentials. Her vision was clear – the additional qualification would better equip her for speaking at conferences and retreats for women, allowing her to share her story and encourage others more effectively.

Upon completing her degree, Nancy entered an internship role with excitement, feeling she was on the cusp of stepping into God's purpose for her life. However, this professional opportunity came to an abrupt end when she was asked to compromise her beliefs. After prayer and consultation with her husband, Nancy took a stand based on her convictions – a decision that cost her the position. The door didn't just close; it slammed shut as she was escorted out by security with her belongings. Standing in the parking lot with her career seemingly derailed, Nancy faced a pivotal moment of trust.

What happened next demonstrates how God works in mysterious ways. The very same day, Nancy discovered an available office space in a building where she had connections with other therapists. Without even consulting anyone, she signed a lease – a step of blind faith that would normally seem reckless. Standing in that empty office, she prayed for confirmation, and God whispered to her heart, "I brought you here for a purpose. Now, do you trust me?" This moment exemplifies Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."

The confirmation continued when Nancy's husband immediately offered support, gathering furniture from their home to set up her new office. Within days, ministers from the community began referring clients to her, validating her step of faith. This sudden provision demonstrated God's faithfulness when we're willing to take courageous steps forward, even without seeing the entire path ahead.

Nancy's story reminds us that faith often works this way – God sometimes illuminates the entire path, but frequently just provides enough light for the next step. The journey isn't always smooth; Nancy acknowledges there have been stumbling blocks, challenges, and further grief since opening her practice. Yet through it all, God has remained faithful, sometimes picking her up and nursing her wounds, other times being that encouraging voice urging continued trust.

This testimony serves as a powerful reminder that when we stand firm in our convictions and trust God with the unknown, He orchestrates circumstances beyond what we could imagine. The path may not always be straight or easy, but His guidance is certain. When you face closed doors in your own life, remember that God might be directing you toward an open door you haven't yet seen – one that leads to your true purpose.

Listen to the whole conversation now on the E's Greenhouse, "Rooted & Rising" podcast!