INTERVIEW WITH DEBRA COLLINS

By Deborah Malone and Rita Prochazka

Questions from Rita:

Debra, can you share some of your testimony with our readers?

I have been down some rough roads on my journey with God. However, the hardest time was when I lost my 18-year-old daughter in an automobile accident in 2000. I didn’t think that I would ever recover from that, but God’s grace and love carried me through the grief and pain of losing my child. He is my shelter during the storms.

The in 2018 I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease called MCTD, (Mixed Connective Tissue Disease), my body was under attack. At one time the pain was so severe, on some days, it was hard to even get out of bed. I kept praying, believing, and trusting God for a miracle. He has touched me so many times and removed the pain. I still struggle from time to time, but the disease isn’t as bad as it once was, and it hasn’t stopped me from doing what God has called me to do. One thing I’ve come to know is, no matter what we face in life, God is always the answer.

In your walk with God in this season of your life, what have you learned?

That nothing is impossible with God, and He doesn’t see age, gender, race, rich or poor. All he sees is a willing vessel and someone who says, “Here I am, Lord, send me.” I put my full trust in God because He says in His word, that He will direct my path.

When I was younger, there were times when life got so busy with family, jobs, church functions, the list goes on and on, but before I knew it, I would put God on the back burner and think I could do it all by myself. I’ve tried it, and it doesn’t work.

Now that I’m older, I completely and fully rely on God. He comes first in my life, my family, and my home. I’ve learned that I can’t make it without Him. He is my everything and my all.

How have you prepared/been prepared for your ministry?

Fasting, prayer, and seeking God for guidance. I don’t have all the answers, but I know the one who does.

I’ve spent a lot of time in prayer and seeking God, asking where He wants me to go and what He wants me to say. I want to always follow the leadership of God, and never try to step out in myself.

I really don’t know if I’m completely prepared for what God has called me to do, but I know, sometimes we learn as we go.

Questions from Deborah

What would your advice be to other “seasoned” women on ways to stay active in ministry?

First and foremost, always keep your focus on God. Make prayer time, being in the Word, and your relationship with God top priority in your life.

At times, you may feel overwhelmed, scared, or even exhausted, just remember to rest. It’s okay to take a break every now and then and let someone step in to help. Take some time to rest so you can rejuvenate your body, spirit and mind.

Enjoy your ministry and what God has called you to. In Nehemiah 8:10 it says, For the joy of the Lord is your strength. Simply put, happiness in God is where your strength is. Enjoy where you are in life, ministry, and your walk with God.

Debra, can you tell us a little about your ministry?

In 1997 the Lord called me into the ministry to be a minister. I have followed that calling for many years. In 2016 my husband and I became pastors of Pentecostal Power Ministries in Lyerly, GA.

I thought I was right where the Lord wanted me to be, but a couple of months ago, the Lord called me into the evangelistic field. I am beginning a new season in my life and excited to see what the Lord has in store for me.

My ministry is to help those that have been rejected, hurt, abused, and outcasts. Not just by the world, but by Christians, too. We live in a hurting world, and if I can reach one soul, it will be worth it all.

What challenges have you had to overcome in this time of your “seasoned” ministry?

I don’t really consider these challenges, but one thing is my age. I would have never dreamed that I would be stepping out into a brand-new ministry at the age of 61, especially traveling away from home, my husband, and my church.

But God has placed a wonderful group of women in my life that are called to go with me. We can overcome every single challenge that we face if we put all our trust in God.

I’m also dealing with some health issues, but I know God has a purpose and a plan for my life, and nothing will stand in the way of what God has placed in front of me.

Debra thank you so much for stopping by and sharing with our readers. I know your words will be an encouragement to other women going through their winter season.

Bio: Debra Lynn Collins is an Amazon Number One bestselling, self-published author. Her debut novel has sold over 200,00 copies since it was first published in August 2014. God has blessed Debra with four children, ten grandchildren, and soon-to-be four great-grandchildren. Through the years, she has tried her hand at many different crafts. She now owns her own small crafting business. You can contact Debra at http://www.debralynncollins.com.