TREASURE Helping Women Fulfill the Great Commission
OCTOBER-DECEMBER
ABIGAIL | UNNAMED: SMALL VOICE, BIG IMPACT | LONG OBEDIENCE
What one generation learns in God’s Word can shape the generation that follows.
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TREASURE
Volume VII, Issue 4 | October-December 2026 | WNAC.ORG
BI BLE ST U D I E S
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F E AT U R E S
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Abigail: A Woman of Discernment................................ 5
99 Years of Faithfulness..........10
Cheyenne Owen explores Abigail’s discernment in reputation and timing. Learn how to apply it in your own life.
A Special Christmas.................26
Unnamed: Small Voice, Big Impact...................................12 Sarah Sargent uses an unnamed servant girl to illustrate how God shows up for people everyday and can use anyone anywhere.
Convention Recap...................17 What Women Are Saying......28
I N E V ER Y IS SU E Let’s Talk........................................ 4 Giggles..........................................16 A Slice of Life.............................31
Long Obedience........................20 Elizabeth Hodges uses the priestess Anna’s abundant patience illustrates how we can lead a life of example to our church and family. TREASURE (ISSN 8960038) is produced quarterly by Women Nationally Active for Christ of the National Association of Free Will Baptists, Inc., 5233 Mount View Road, Antioch, TN 37013-2306. Copyright privileges reserved. A 2026 Member of Evangelical Press Association. Mail questions or comments to: Treasure, PO Box 5002, Antioch, TN 37011-5002
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ISSN 8960038 Volume VII, Issue 4
Editorial Staff Kristi Johnson, Director Tori Matlock, Design WNAC Board Ashley Alphin, Ohio Brenda Bunch, Missouri Rachelle Burchett, Kentucky Sharon Dickey, Texas Angie Frazier, Florida Dusty Harrison, Oklahoma Alyssa Harvey, Tennessee Sarah Lawson, Michigan Karinda Polk, Arkansas Column Contributors Tracy Payne, Arkansas Sarah Sargent, Ohio Kristi Johnson, Tennessee
Treasure Bible Study Guide is a partner publication with PULP1T Magazine and ONE Magazine.
wnac@nafwb.org | wnac.org | @WNACFWB OCTOBER-DECEMBER
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Let’s Talk By Tr ac y Pay ne
About the Writer: Tracy Payne serves with her husband, Russell, in Springdale, Arkansas. She is the mother of five and “Chick” to one grandson. She loves women’s ministry, especially Bible study, and can often be found in a local thrift store.
About eleven o’clock that Friday morning, I answered my phone and
heard the most horrible noises and words ever uttered from my husband’s lips. He had just found our 34-year-old son Casey dead in our home. The hours and days that followed can only be described as shock, dream state, denial, anger, guilt, and deep sorrow. Casey’s sister and I wrote his obituary. I gathered pictures and music for a slideshow and a funeral service. How did I do that? The following week was my son’s funeral. We were shocked at the number of people in attendance and the lengths at which they went to be there for us. That day they came from all over the United States to comfort us. Seeing the many people whose lives our family had impacted gather together and share our sorrow blessed us so much. Friends Keith and Debbie Burden were there. When Debbie asked what they could do, I said, “Please tell your mother I need her to pray for me.” Her mother, Miss Bea, lost her daughter Kay and son-in-law John many years ago in a tragic car accident. I was newly married when it happened and I remember questioning it. Their lives were ahead of them, and they were on their way to the mission field. Knowing all that, I realized Miss Bea could pray from my perspective. I had just stepped into her shoes a few days before. I would be walking in Miss Bea’s shoes for the rest of my life. If she could do it, I knew I could do it too. A few days later, I received a long hand-written letter from her, assuring me she would pray. Through our triumphs and tragedies, we should be mindful of the shoes we have stepped into and be alert of others who will be stepping into our shoes. Since Casey’s death, we have watched many friends lose children. These are not the shoes I chose to walk in, and I do not wish for others to wear these shoes. However, I have been given a beautiful opportunity to minister as “Miss Bea” to others as Galatians 6:2 instructs, “Bear ye one another’s burdens.” Always be on the lookout for those who may be stepping into your shoes and come alongside them to be their guide.
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The Context: 1 Samuel 25:1-13 Abigail’s story is contained in one chapter nestled in the chaos that followed Israel’s demand for a king. To know the people in this narrative, it is important to understand their names. Abigail means to bring the Father joy or the Father is joyful. In contrast, her husband’s name was Nabal, which means fool. His foolishness was not foolish silliness but harsh self-centeredness. Verse 3 clearly introduces this dissimilar couple: “She was a woman of good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance: but the man was churlish and evil in his doings.” These words reveal everything we need to know to understand their actions through the rest of the chapter. Every act of Nabal is foolish and offensive, while Abigail acts with great wisdom and discernment. To fully grasp the significance of Abigail’s actions in this chapter, we must first understand the context of the story. Nabal was a man of material wealth and owner of 3,000 sheep and 1,000 goats. It was shearing season. Historically, this event was an occasion of celebration and generosity. During these days when they were shearing the animals, David sent some of his men to help protect Nabal’s shepherds from Philistine attacks. Because they had helped Nabal, David sent men to ask him if they could join in the feasting as an act of gratitude for their service. As already established, Nabal was a foolish man. He responded to David’s men with the greatest offense. He acted as though he did not know David, “Who is David? Who is the son of Jesse? There be many servants now a days that break away every man from his master” (verse 10). Nabal referred to the man, the next king of Israel, as if he were an unfaithful servant. You can imagine David’s wrath when the servants told him their request was not only declined, but Nabal had disrespected David in the worst way possible. David took up his sword and with 400 men, he set out to kill Nabal and all the men of his household.
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Enter Abigail, the woman of discernment. Here the chapter’s focus shifts from Nabal’s actions to those of Abigail. We learn much about discernment through Abigail’s response to the foolishness of her husband and the anger of David.
Abigail Had a Reputation of Discernment (1 Samuel 25:14-17). Abigail did not know of Nabal’s insult to David until one of Nabal’s young men told her. Helpless to bring about any change, this man knew of Abigail’s discernment and informed her of the danger they were in, boldly declaring, “know and consider what thou wilt do” (verse 17). He trusted her to act, to act well, and to act quickly. Notice the sharp contrast in the servant’s description of Nabal in verse 17 — so worthless “a man cannot speak to him.” Nabal was a man who could not be reasoned with, but Abigail was a woman who would help.
Abigail Was Discerning in Her Timing (1 Samuel 25:18-22; 36-37). After learning of her husband’s foolish response to David and the wrath about to descend upon her home, verse 18 says Abigail made haste. She collected 200 loaves of bread, two skins of wine, five sheep (already prepared), 40 pounds of grain, 100 clusters of raisins, and 200 cakes of figs. (This was another reflection of Nabal’s great wealth — all this food was readily on hand.) Nabal had refused to share his wealth of food with David, so Abigail took a portion to him and his men. She did not tell her husband of her action until she returned home. In fact, when she returned home, Nabal was so drunk from feasting she decided to wait until the following morning when he was of a clearer mind. She chose her timing carefully. The immediate problem was David and his men descending upon them and destroying them. So, Nabal’s offense had to be remedied first, or they would all be killed. She also knew talking to her husband while he was drunk would be a complete waste of time. She
recognized the delicate balance between when to act and when to wait.
Abigail Chose Her Words With Discernment (1 Samuel 25: 23-42). When Abigail met David on the road, she got off her donkey and bowed to the ground, offering him the deference his position deserved. Verses 24-31 relay her speech sto him. First, she took all the guilt of her husband’s folly upon herself. She knew David had committed to killing all the men of her household. By claiming her husband’s guilt, perhaps the punishment would be lessened because she was a woman. If one of Nabal’s male servants had tried to approach David, he would have likely been killed on sight. She admitted to David that her husband was a worthless man who did not deserve David’s attention. She did not lie or try to convince David his servants had misinterpreted Nabal’s meaning to soften his rage. She honestly confessed the folly of her husband and tried to make up for his wrongs by offering the gifts she had brought. Then she asked, “I pray thee, forgive the trespass of thine handmaid” (verse 28). Again, she accepted full blame for Nabal’s offense.
Abigail was Discerning in Her Timing.
Abigail then did something very bold. She spoke on behalf of the Lord, reminding David of his position in Israel and the possible repercussions that would come from killing Nabal and his men. She reminded David the Lord was the One who built him up, and because David acted under the commands of the Lord, God would protect him from evil because he was “bound in the bundle of life with the Lord thy God” (verse 29b). She concluded her pleas with this statement: “When the Lord shall have done to my lord according to all the good that he hath spoken concerning thee, and shall have appointed thee ruler over Israel; That this shall be no grief unto thee, nor offence of heart unto my lord, either that thou hast shed blood causeless, or that my lord hath avenged himself ” (verses 30-31a). While the Lord had appointed David to fight against many wicked persons, Abigail pointed out this was not one of those times. In this case, David was acting out of his own unrighteous anger. Her bold counsel forced him to stop and consider how this action could affect his life. She called out the sin in David’s desire to kill Nabal and his household and helped correct David’s focus from self to God.
Abigail Chose Her Words with Discernment.
Abigail Had a Reputation of Discernment.
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David’s perspective changed immediately. He blessed Abigail for her discretion and for her boldness. She had kept him from taking advantage of his position to exact his own justice. David admitted that without her intervention, the next morning, not one of the men of her household would be alive. He accepted her gifts, her petition, and her discernment.
A good reputation is not developed overnight. It is a process that takes a lifetime. However, we are not perfect, and we all experience moments when we say or do something that reflects poorly on us. Discernment is needed to make an honest apology to God and those we offend. Learning how to apologize well can help mend a bruised reputation.
The Result
Second, Abigail knew timing was important. A corrective word at the wrong time can be received poorly. We need discernment to know if we are approaching a conversation with the right attitude. For example, waiting until the next day to address a topic can greatly affect what we think is important to share. But, like Abigail, sometimes you may find yourself in a situation where you must act immediately. Proverbs 15:23 says, “A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!” Timing matters when it comes to speaking and acting with discernment.
After all this, Abigail returned home to a man so drunk he had no awareness she had saved him from destruction. The next morning, when she related the events of the day before, verse 37 says, “His heart died within him, and he became as a stone.” This was the beginning of the end for Nabal. He escaped David’s judgment, but he could not escape the judgment of the Lord. About ten days later, “The Lord smote Nabal,” and he died (verse 38). When David heard of Nabal’s death, he again blessed the Lord for stopping him from exacting his own judgment upon Nabal. Then David sent for Abigail to marry her. Despite how powerfully the Lord used her to intervene, she did not become arrogant. When David’s servants came and told her of David’s desire to marry her, her response was, “Behold, let thine handmaid be a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord” (verse 41). She responded with the utmost humility.
What Can We Learn from Abigail About Discernment? Following the pattern of Abigail’s behavior, we can learn how to develop and strengthen our own sense of discernment. First, we saw Abigail had a good reputation. Proverbs 22:1 says, “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.” Nabal had great riches, but Abigail had a good reputation. How they chose to act is a great reflection of this proverb. The Lord struck Nabal down, and Abigail brought salvation to her household.
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Third, Abigail chose her words carefully. Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” Our words are powerful! To speak well requires great discernment. Words can build up or tear down. They can encourage or correct. Words of correction can even be shared in a way that encourages. Sometimes, words are meant well, but the way they are presented is offensive. A spirit of discernment helps us be curious about someone else’s experience and adjust our words appropriately for the situation.
How Can We Develop a Spirit of Discernment? The Bible is our primary source of wisdom. The Proverbs are full of teaching on how to develop discernment. If you have an area where you need more discernment, Proverbs has a verse about it. The ancient and inspired wisdom of Solomon and others still stands true today. Proverbs is a great place to start seeking discernment.
Find your Abigail. Find a mentor who has more life experience than you and ask her to help you grow in discernment. Find someone willing to speak the truth to you in love, call out your sin, and remind you of the high standards a child of God is asked to meet. That person will be your accountability partner and can help guide you through challenging situations. Often, developing a spirit of discernment begins with admitting you need help and guidance. Set a goal to become someone else’s Abigail. It may be as simple as being available to help someone with a need. If you have survived a major life milestone such as finishing high school, college, moving, marriage, having children, or some other life-changing situation, you learned lessons and gained some wisdom to offer those who are new to those experiences. But remember that timing is still important. Advice offered at the wrong time or in the wrong way might be dismissed. Somtimes, this may be tricky to navigate,
but a great place to start is by simply letting people know you are available to support them through challenging times. Ask God to help you grow in wisdom and discernment. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” Wisdom is a gift God wants to give you. We just need to ask for it. About the Writer: Cheyenne Owen graduated from Welch College in May 2026, where she studied theology, psychology, and music. She is continuing her education at Welch, pursuing a master’s degree in psychology. Her goal is to be certified as a behavior technician working with autistic children. She married Austin Owen in September of this year, and they currently live in Gallatin, Tennessee.
For Further Study: Read 1 Samuel 24–26 as a single story. In each chapter, David is tempted to exact his own judgment on someone, but every time, he is reminded to leave justice to the Lord.
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99 Ye a rs of Fa it h f uln ess L or e ne Mile y R e f le c t s on He r Minis t r y Lorene Miley was only eight years old when WNAC was founded. As a little girl, she never imagined how God would use Free Will Baptist women during her lifetime. Keep reading to catch a glimpse into what this remarkable 99-year-old can teach us about faithfulness. Lorene says, “When I was 11, a group of us kids met in a hayloft on a Sunday afternoon to play church. When we were singing the invitation hymn, I started crying and said, ‘Kids, I really do want to be saved.’ My sister said, ‘You kneel down right here, and you tell God everything you ever did wrong.’ I did, and I thought, ‘Well, I guess I’m saved now.’ So, I became one of the church members.’” When she was 17 years old, Lorene attended a revival at her church and experienced the presence of God in a very real way. Soon after that, she began working with child evangelism, and that confirmed to her she was indeed a believer. God told her, “You are my child, and I am teaching you everything you need to know.” In her humble spirit, Lorene confesses, “He is still teaching me.” Lorene Miley and her husband, Laverne, served as missionaries in Côte d’Ivoire, West Africa, for many years. When asked about her primary ministry on the field, she responded, “I helped Laverne.” She also taught weekly sewing classes and gathered with women around trees and on porches to disciple them. She commented, “The thing that was always outstanding to me was that when I got up, I eagerly faced the day.
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I thought, what will it be like? Every day was different. No two days were ever the same. And I think I was just filled with expectancy.” When the Mileys ended their time on the mission field, they returned to the States, where Lorene worked at the WNAC office as the editor of Co-Laborer Magazine (now Treasure Bible Study Guide). “That’s where I really learned our women. I mean, there are some great women out there. I loved traveling. I loved the retreats. We had a writing contest, and I loved to read what they wrote, and I could just identify with it.” As the editor of Co-Laborer (pictured, right), Lorene helped WNAC move into a new era of communications. In an editorial, she not only notes they refreshed the look of the magazine, but she was dreaming about future subscribers when she asked, “How long will it take to reach 20,000?” She also imagined a magazine with a slick four-color cover. Ladies, if you are reading a printed version of Treasure Bible Study Guide, you are holding Lorene Miley’s dream in your hands! Aren’t you glad her passion for women’s ministry pushed her to dream bigger? These days, Lorene Miley can be found in the Truth Seekers Sunday school class at Cofer’s Chapel Free Will Baptist Church every Sunday. Her hearing and her eyesight are fading, but her adventurous spirit remains strong. During worship services, she sits in the pew behind WNAC director Kristi Johnson. Soon after Kristi was chosen to lead WNAC, Lorene shared a verse of encouragement with her: “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest” (Ecclesiastes 9:10). Lorene also has a special message for each of you. Scan the QR code at right to hear her share her heart for women across our denomination. ( You don’t want to miss this!) Lorene’s testimony isn’t measured by the number of years she served, but by how many of those years she has given to Christ.
Faithful ministry like that of Lorene Miley isn’t measured in a handful of dramatic moments, but in a lifetime of steady steps of obedience, prayers, encouragement, Bible study, and service. She is now handing her faith to a new generation of younger “Lorenes” who will continue her calling into the future. What will your hands find to do today? Make sure you do it with all your might!
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When you think about World War II, many stories and events probably come to mind, such as the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the Battle of Midway, D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge. Then, of course, no one can forget the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima. We also associate many famous people with the war as well: Winston Churchill, President Franklin Roosevelt, Joseph Stalin, General Dwight Eisenhower, General Douglas MacArthur, President Harry Truman, and even Adolf Hitler. We tend to acknowledge the famous names and places while failing to recognize the unknown heroes. I recently learned about some brave women who deserve to have their story shared as well.
Have you ever heard of the Angels of Bataan and Corregidor? These titles refer to 77 U.S. military nurses serving in the Philippines, who were captured and imprisoned at internment camps for three years. Amid harsh living conditions, they established a hospital inside the camp, caring for anyone who needed assistance. Rather than living in despair or constant hope of rescue, they focused on providing aid to help others survive. Yet this also gave them a reason to look beyond their current circumstances. All 77 of these brave women survived and were liberated in 1945. After the war, their story didn’t become a movie or find the front page of the news. These women didn’t believe they did anything extraordinary; they just did their jobs. Their story reminds us of an unnamed servant girl in 2 Kings 5.
Something to Consider: Have you ever found yourself in a situation, not of your choosing, where you still had an opportunity to serve others? Can you think of anyone in the Bible who was in a similar situation, but still chose to serve? In this chapter, we will read about a young girl in
a situation — not her choice — where she took a chance and served. Although this girl’s name is unknown to us, she is very well known to God.
Despite her anonymity, her story and example should inspire us to emulate her whenever the opportunity arises. She was a young Israelite girl captured and brought to Syria where she became the slave (maidservant) to Naaman’s wife. Can you imagine her fear? Not even a teenager, she was forced to work in the home of the very people who ripped her away from her family. Everything around her was unfamiliar. Imagine how long it took her to adjust to the differences in this new culture and the language being spoken around her? And whose household was this? Namaan was a military leader in Syria, and this young girl was a war victim living with one of the generals of the war her people had lost. She had no power or position, but she knew Someone who did have all power and position. She knew Yahweh. And she also was familiar with His servant, the prophet Elisha. She had heard stories about what Elisha accomplished through Yahweh’s power. Namaan was not only a man of valor and a war hero, but he was also a leper. Leprosy was one of the most feared diseases in the Bible. For the children of Israel, it meant living outside the city to avoid spreading this contagious disease. However, pagan cultures did not exclude lepers from society. Yet this inclusion did not prevent the effects of the disease. Namaan suffered serious pain. His skin displayed visible signs of leprosy. As the disease progressed, it ultimately would lead to his death. I am certain this was something discussed in his household. Some forms of leprosy were highly contagious, so precautions were set up to prevent spreading to other members of the family. The young servant girl surely witnessed all this. Did she think about how leprosy was handled back in OCTOBER-DECEMBER
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her homeland? As the maidservant of Naaman’s wife, was she worried she would inevitably begin showing signs herself ? In any case, she knew the answer: “And she said unto her mistress, Would God my lord were with the prophet that is in Samaria! for he would recover him of his leprosy” (2 Kings 5:3). I am sure she had been considering this in heart and mind for weeks or months, but she finally said it aloud to Namaan’s wife. Or maybe she’d been saying it since she arrived, but no one listened. (I guess we can ask her someday in Heaven when we know her name.) If only Namaan had met Elisha the prophet in Samaria, he could have been healed! I wonder if Namaan’s household had felt hopeless since learning the leprosy diagnosis. After all, the disease inevitably led to death. But now, they had a spark of hope in the words of the little slave girl from Israel. On the basis of this hope, Namaan set off to find Elisha. The rest of Namaan’s story is found in 2 Kings 5:4-27. He eventually went to Elisha’s house where Elisha sent specific instructions for healing through a messenger. Namaan didn’t like the instructions and threw a fit (verses 11-12). There is nothing like a powerful man throwing a fit! Thankfully, his servants eventually set him straight, and he followed Elisha’s directives and was healed. Verse 15 reveals the best part of Namaan’s story. His sin problem was healed, too. He realized Yahweh is the one true God and committed his life to honoring Him. Our unnamed and insignificant servant girl used her position to greatest potential.
She used her words to witness of the healing, saving power of God. Her actions started a ripple effect that led to an enemy of Israel experiencing a life-changing encounter with the one true God. Her faith led to an eternal impact on Namaan and likely his whole
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household. The servant girl may be nameless to us, but she has a beautiful legacy in Heaven.
Something to Consider: How can you be a witness of the power of God in your everyday life? When have you seen the faith of a child have a major impact on the lives of those around them? Do you find yourself in a hard circumstance where you need to be the spark of hope to those around you? The unnamed servant girl is not the only person in the Bible who showed faithfulness in harsh conditions. Remember Joseph’s story in Genesis 37-50? He was sold as a slave by his brothers, and despite doing the right thing, he eventually found himself in prison. Yet the Bible says the Lord was with him. Joseph continued to be faithful and eventually became second in command in Egypt. Joseph demonstrated the provision and perfect timing of God to Egypt and all of Israel. Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were taken from their homes in Israel. As Babylonian captives, they served in King Nebuchadnezzar’s palace and learned the ways of the Chaldeans. Yet they remained faithful, and the Lord was with them. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stood faithful, walked around the fiery furnace with Jesus, and showed King Nebuchadnezzar how God’s deliverance looks. Daniel remained faithful through community persecution and jealousy. The Lord was with him and shut the mouths of a den of lions. Daniel’s service to God showed King Darius that God is in control of everything. He alone is worthy of our prayers and praise (Daniel 1-9). Paul and Silas were imprisoned in harsh conditions, yet the Lord was with them. While singing,
praising and showcasing their faithfulness, an earthquake caused the prison doors to open and their chains to break. Through their witness, they saved the life of the prison guard and led him to spiritual salvation as well (Acts 16:25-31).
The Word of God is filled with times when the Lord showed up for people, no matter the circumstances. And the Lord is with you every day as well — both in your chosen circumstances and in the difficult ones you didn’t choose. Let us live out our daily faithfulness to Him. May we be a witness of God’s provision and perfect timing like Joseph. Let us continue to share the delivering power of God like Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Wherever we find ourselves, we should sing of His delivering and sustaining power like Paul and Silas.
Let us never forget our voice matters, even when we feel unnamed, small, and insignificant. God brings purpose from pain and puts us in positions for divine influence each day. Our society encourages our children to make a name for themselves, claiming popularity and influence are the keys to success. When elementary school or a middle-school-aged children are asked what they want to be when they grow up, many answer “an influencer.” A career that did not even exist 25 years ago is now the one many young people are pursuing. While I would not necessarily encourage young people to seek a career in influencing, I do encourage them to live a life of influence.
smile to someone who is having a rough day, offering to pray for someone facing a health crisis, or inviting a co-worker to church who is struggling to find peace. Our mailboxes may not contain an influencer mailer for the latest product or a check from TikTok for our viral videos, but we can share the love of Jesus and the power of the Gospel with every person in our spheres of influence.
Something to Consider: Who in your sphere of influence needs to know Christ? Where is God prompting you to share the hope of Christ? Where do you see God’s sovereignty in your life today? Where can you speak with boldness and compassion like the unnamed servant girl? About the Writer: Sarah Sargent is a third-generation member and leader in Free Will Baptist Women’s Ministries. She has been active at all levels of the ministry from an early age. In 2013, she began serving on the WNAC Board and has been a member of the Shine! team since its inception, as both a speaker and writer. She serves as the president of the women’s ministry at Reynoldsburg FWB Church and president for Ohio FWB Women’s Ministries. She is a proud alumni of The Ohio State University, loves all things Disney and her labradoodles Regal and Lexi.
Every day we have the opportunity to be “an influencer” for God. Whether our interactions are big or small, we can share the love of Jesus: sharing an encouraging OCTOBER-DECEMBER
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Giggles!
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About the Writer: Sarah Sargent loves to laugh and make others laugh even more. She is a thirdgeneration member and leader in Free Will Baptist Women’s Ministries. She currently serves as president of the women’s ministry at Reynoldsburg Free Will Baptist Church and president of Ohio Free Will Baptist Women’s Ministries.
Have you ever had the “church giggles” while collecting for Operation Christmas Child?
I love the ministry of Operation Christmas Child. I love hearing stories from the kids throughout the years who have received the boxes. I love it when our church gets together to assemble boxes. Have you ever seen th I Love Lucy episode where they work in a candy shop? That is much like packing day at our church. No matter how many times I count the box items before they arrive, someone always ends up saying, “I’m short an item!” In addition to packing boxes together as a church, we sometimes have people bring pre-made boxes. A couple of years ago, my friend Betty brought in her box. I asked her if it were for a boy or a girl, and she said, “girl.” Then I questioned which age group, since it wasn’t marked on the box. She was not sure which to choose and asked me to look through the items she’d packed and make that determination. So, I opened the box. With concern, I pulled out a giant pair of sharp scissors and then a kitchen spatula. I held them up to Betty and said, “I’m not sure if these are a good idea.” Immediately, she started laughing and said, “I have been looking for those everywhere!” She went on to explain her five-year-old great niece had visited and probably hid Betty’s scissors and spatula in the OCC box. Turns out Khloe was in a “hide-and-seek phase,” and these were just two of many household items missing since her most latest visit. I’m just glad Betty asked for my opinion on the age for the box!
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2026 Convention Recap
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B y K r is t i John s on This summer, we experienced WNAC a whole new way at the
National Convention in Columbus, Ohio. Women traveled from coast to coast to be there. Here’s a recap of the week.
Monday On Monday morning, Kristi Johnson gave her report to the General Board. She was joined by all the other national departments. She shared her appreciation and gratitude for their support and ongoing encouragement as she has taken on this new role as director of WNAC.
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Monday afternoon when the exhibit area opened for the first time, people from all across the denomination stopped by to see the WNAC Booth, grab some swag, hear about Shine! and WNAC ministries, and fill the shelves of our pop-up Provision Closet for missionaries. After the evening service, over 200 people gathered for “A Walk in Her Shoes,” where Bethany Douglas (NAM), Angela Wooton (NAM), Jen Thomsen (IM), and Andie Greenwood (IM) spent time in a conversation panel sharing about their ministries. What a great time to connect with women who go and women who send! About the Pictures: 1. Convention worship 2. Director, Kristi Johnson, with Marjorie Workman, former director of WNAC 3. Gift bags for Monday night “A Walk in Her Shoes” event 4. Elena Vazquez, Shine! convention intern 5. Kristi Johnson gives WNAC report in business meeting 6. Breakfast with OHWAC and WNAC boards
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Tuesday
The OHWAC board joined the WNAC board for a delicious breakfast and sweet time of fellowship and connection. The OHWAC ladies presented a large check to WNAC to help with the expenses of the convention. We are so thankful for them and all they did to make this week happen!
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During a morning seminar, Kristi Johnson shared about “The Future of WNAC” where many women from across the denomination participated in a questionnaire about ways to move into the future. The ladies present were able to be part of writing that future as they contributed their ideas and shared together. (See pages 28-30 to read some findings of the survey.) “El Futuro de WNAC” was also shared in the afternoon in the heart language of our Spanish-speaking women. Together, they brainstormed ways to be involved in getting their cultural experience into the heart of WNAC for future ministry. This historic meeting in Spanish was essential for creating paths into a whole new field of ministry among women. WNAC Board member Rachelle Burchette shared another powerful seminar: “It’s Not Personal, It’s Personality!” Laughter abounded as women learned about themselves and how they are made to take part in ministry. Katie Postlewaite, another WNAC Board member, described the seminar as “energetic and informative.” She continued by saying, “I felt like I walked away from it learning more about myself and other people.” During the Tuesday evening service at the Vertical Three Conference, we introduced the 2027 theme of Shine! to teen girls: Be Still and Behold. We can hardly wait to see many girls experience this event on February 27, 2027! Apply now to be a host location church. It’s simple, and we’ll help you every step of the way.
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During the Wednesday business session, WNAC Director Kristi Johnson shared her annual report to the convention. She excitedly talked about the way faithful supporters have helped supply needs for an underfunded WNAC general fund this year. After budget cuts and careful stewarding of finances, WNAC is on track to meet a three-year goal of stabilizing the heartbeat of WNAC through a healthy general fund.
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Three WNAC board members were honored for faithful completion of their terms: Katie Postlewaite, Jessica Edwards, and Tracy Payne. Phyllis York and Ruth McDonald also were celebrated as they ended their time of service with WNAC over the past year. We are grateful for these individuals who served WNAC faithfully and helped share the ministry of WNAC with women across the denomination. We are so thankful for those who helped us Experience WNAC in Columbus, Ohio, this year, and we look forward to seeing even more ladies next year in Grand Rapids, Michigan!
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About the Pictures
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1. Pop-Up Provision Closet in WNAC booth 2. Jean and Lori McCraney (AL) 3. Rebekah Lopes (TN), Patty Sargent (OH), and Ashley Alphin (OH) 4. Melissa Haralson (AR) 5. Kathy Jones (SC) and Beverly Brown (NC) 6. Jackson Watts (TN) 7. WNAC booth exhibit 8. Shine! announcement about next year’s event on February 27, 2027 9. OHWAC ladies present a LARGE check to WNAC 10. Grace Carney (Japan) 11. Robin Lewis (SC) 12. Carol Teague (France) and Lauren Williams (France)
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Mary, the mother of Jesus. Hannah. Sarah. Mary and Martha. Lydia. Are these biblical women familiar to you? Could you describe them if asked? What about Huldah? Milcah? Damaris? Could you share their stories? Ponder what it means to be known personally by the one true God…even though unknown by many, if not most, people. This month we will visit Anna, the prophetess, one of the lesser-known women of the Bible. What can we glean from her life? How can we translate those lessons into our own lives? During the time Anna lived, the Roman Empire dominated the entire Mediterranean world. The Romans were strong and powerful. Science, philosophy, theology, wealth, and social power reigned supreme. They opposed any idea of the coming Messiah. But there was a remnant of Jews, a few who knew the long-foretold prophecies and believed they would be fulfilled.
Who Was Anna? (Luke 2:36-38) Anna was a prophetess “of a great age” and well along in years, the daughter of Phanuel of the tribe of Aser. Prophets and prophetesses did not necessarily predict the future. Speaking for God to proclaim His truth was their main role. They were also known for their spiritual wisdom. The only other prophetesses mentioned in the Bible are: Miriam (Exodus 15:20), Deborah (Judges 4-5), Huldah (2 Kings 22:14), and the four daughters of Philip (Acts 21:9). Anna’s name, like Hannah of the Old Testament, means gracious or favored. Hannah praised God for Samuel, her long-awaited son, (1 Samuel 2:110), while Anna praised God for the Christ-child, Jesus, the Messiah. Anna’s praise reflected her center and focus on God. Anna’s prophetic ministry was birthed out of tragedy. Probably married around 14 years old, she was widowed at 21 after seven short years of
marriage. There is no record of children. Some commentators feel she was a widow for 84 years, which put her around 100 years old for this story. Her widowhood is mentioned to her praise, even though she became one of the most vulnerable members of society with no one to provide for her financially, nor to give her care if her health failed. Her circumstances were far from easy. Anna was faced with a choice, as are we. She could focus on this tragedy, or she could repurpose her pain. Anna did not allow her love to die with her husband but redirected her love to God. She was part of the godly Jewish remnant, engrossed in spiritual, not material, things. Drawing closer to God and serving Him by prayer and fasting from night until day, she did not grow “weary in well doing” (Galatians 6:9) as she grew older. We, too, can serve God just as well as Anna as we age, but are we?
Something to Consider: How do we respond to the tragedies in our lives? Do we withdraw from God as if He is the cause of our pain? What can we learn from these verses: • John 10:10 • John 16:33 • Romans 8:28 • 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 Anna’s Devotion To God (Luke 2:37) Being a woman, Anna probably had doubts about her calling and questions regarding her purpose in life, yet she was humble, obedient, and faithful. She allowed her sorrow to soften her heart and strengthen her faith. Anna’s prayer could not duplicate the Jewish men who praised God for not creating them as Gentiles (non-Jews) or women. Yet, she did not let this restriction strangle her love for God. She was OCTOBER-DECEMBER
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thankful to enter the Court of the Women, one step closer to the Most Holy Place in the Temple. She would bow her head and pray Psalm 84:1-3. How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts! My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the Lord: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God. Yea, the sparrow hath found an house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, even thine altars, O Lord of hosts, my King, and my God. Physical location restrictions could not bind her actual worship and devotion. Luke tells us Anna did not leave the temple complex but served God with fasting and prayers night and day. Herod’s Temple was very large and included various rooms, and she may have lived in one of those. Some commentators state she was here during her waking hours so as not to miss “the redemption of Jerusalem” (verse 38b). Staying
in the Temple daily, she heard the Scriptures read regularly and hid them in her heart. Anna depicts Romans 12:1-2. She presented her body by prayer and fasting, “a living sacrifice to God.” Daily Anna looked for the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah. She believed in these prophecies and watched expectantly for the coming of the Messiah. This was not an easy wait. Jesus’ birth ended 400 years of silence when Israel had waited for a word from God and the Promised One. From Scripture, we know the Temple symbolizes God’s presence. When we spend time in His Word, pray, and worship Him, we are also living in His presence. We must be set apart, learning to yield to the Holy Spirit and be led by Him. “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). We must be conscious of God’s presence, making our hearts a home where the Holy Spirit rules, sharing Christ with others and seeking to win the lost.
Do you see the evidence of Anna’s devotion? Not only had she spent decades in prayer and fasting, but she recognized the Christ. Would we have recognized Him?
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Something to Consider: Do you see the evidence of Anna’s devotion? Not only had she spent decades in prayer and fasting, but she recognized the Christ.
Something to Consider: Does our joy spill out to others as God moves, answers prayer, and blesses us?
Would we have recognized Him? Or would we have seen Joseph and Mary as just another young Jewish couple fulfilling the requirements of the Law?
Do we look for those who are longing for answers to their prayers?
Anna’s Role in Recognizing the Messiah (Luke 2:38) When Jesus was 40 days old, Mary and Joseph brought Him up from Bethlehem for the ceremonial purification of Mary. Anna may have watched as the young parents entered the Court of the Gentiles through the open space in the Temple. Mary and Joseph would have ascended the beautiful steps to the Court of the Women. As Simeon uttered his prophecy and lifted the Child, Anna knew. This baby is the Christ-child, the One who would dispel the darkness of the world. What a blessing when her faith became sight! Simeon’s parting words to Mary in verse 35, “A sword will pierce your heart also,” may have cast a dark cloud over Mary’s heart. Yet, Anna, “coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem” (verse 38). God prompted Anna to focus on the fact Jesus would fulfill the prophecies and bring redemption to the world. Maybe Anna’s words, like her name’s meaning, were gracious as they lifted the dark cloud for a brief moment. They certainly brightened Anna’s heart as the first woman to proclaim Christ. This day the Court of the Women had been transformed into the holiest place of all. God had come in human flesh to earth. Anna could not contain this joy and began to tell the others.
Do we know where to find the people who will listen?
Anna’s Influence on the Early Church In the Jewish culture, elders were respected. Thus, Anna’s prophecy carried extra influence because she was not young. She prayed, fasted, believed the Old Testament prophecies, and longed to see the Messiah. Then led by the Holy Spirit, she was one of the first to bear witness of Jesus. What actions did she take? She talked about this Child to everyone who had been waiting expectantly for God to rescue Jerusalem — the ones who had waited so long for the promised Messiah. She knew where to find them. Because of the influence of Pharisaism (rigid following of religious laws) and living in the city of Herod (the enemy), she may have whispered what she had seen and heard. Anna’s testimony encouraged these faithful ones to be prayer warriors and genuine worshipers. Anna probably did not live to see the public ministry of Jesus. But she saw the Christ-child and thanked God for Him. Her life is a reminder that the prophetic witness in the Temple era bridged Old and New Testament faith. She was proof God does not change; He keeps His promises. Anna’s life looked hopeless at one point, but Anna chose to pray and fast. Day by day she renewed her mind and strengthened her inner person through communion with God. These spiritual disciplines spilled out in thankfulness and spiritual acuity. She recognized God’s answer to her long years of praying — the Messiah had come. OCTOBER-DECEMBER
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Imagine Anna’s impact on other women. Not only had Simeon’s account been heard, but a woman had been present, she had seen and heard. What an example for godly women to be faithful into old age and impact their sphere of influence through faithfulness.
Something to Consider: Whose life is being impacted by our life? Are we being faithful even if we are “of great age”? Or have we become “weary in well doing”? Who are we encouraging on their faith journey both young and old? Legacy of Faithful Service and Witness As we prepare for the Lord’s return, our salvation cannot be a private matter. We serve God by putting Him first in all we do (Matthew 6:33). We must remember our very life is ministry (Matthew 5:16). We have the daily opportunity to spread the gospel, encourage, and disciple others as we go (Matthew 28:18-20; 1 Corinthians 10:31). Anna’s testimony inspires us to also leave a legacy of spiritual readiness. We do not know the day nor the hour when our Lord will return (Matthew 24:36). What we do know is: He will return! In a culture that has drifted far from God, we can encourage fellow believers to remain watchful and prayerful as God’s plan unfolds. Were Anna’s prayers only about her personal needs? I do not think so. I believe Anna was praying for the Messiah’s coming and for the needs of God’s people. Do our prayers reveal our earnest desire for Jesus to return a second time? When we pray and fast, are we lifting up the need for open doors to the gospel in many difficult places in our world? Do we pray for unity in our church as well as the Church world?
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We must submit and yield to the leading of the Holy Spirit, looking for opportunities to share with others just like Anna. We study and obey God’s Word then go forth and serve faithfully (Romans 12:1-2). Do we encourage older people to share their wisdom and experience? Will we listen carefully when they speak? Do we offer them friendship and help them find ways to continue to serve faithfully?
Are we leaving footsteps to help those who are coming behind us and looking to us for an example & direction?
There has always been a remnant of godly people who believe God’s Word and serve Him faithfully. Are we leaving footsteps to help those who are coming behind us and looking to us for an example and direction? Will we hear those coveted words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23)?
Something to Consider: What about Anna’s lifestyle do you wish was true of yours? What should you do now to make that happen? Conclusion Just imagine the triumph Anna experienced after having waited decades for an answer to her prayers. What was her immediate response? Praise and gratitude to God. She could not contain this good news, so she shared it with other people who were waiting for the Messiah. What a blessing and privilege to focus our prayers upon the promises of God. He does not change (Malachi 3:6). He is “the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). May we follow Anna’s example of worship, courage, boldness, faithfulness, and perseverance. May we also wait on the Lord through challenging times and seasons in our lives. Then may we burst into thanksgiving and praise when prayers are answered…or even as we wait (1 Thessalonians 5:17; Colossians 2:7). Have we learned the art of lingering in God’s presence? Anna had. Do we create space in our daily lives for deep, intimate connection with God? How can we turn our own disappointments, sorrows, and seasons of waiting into opportunities for a deeper devotion to God?
A life poured out in God’s presence is never wasted. About the Writer: Elizabeth Hodges has been married to Eddie for 49 years. She is mom to three, and “Grammie” to 11. A retired educator and former director of WNAC, Elizabeth is still active in her “great age.” Join Elizabeth on the journey!
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Leah Nichols was born January 7, 1932.
She grew up on a farm in the Nahunta community of North Carolina and attended Nahunta High School. Three other well-known Free Will Baptists also attended school there: Eugene Waddell, Bobby Jackson, and Geraldine Waid — all classmates of Leah. Geraldine and Leah played basketball together on the high school team. All four young people eventually went to Free Will Baptist Bible College (now Welch College) in Nashville, Tennessee. Leah married Eugene Waddell July 22, 1954, and I was born in September 1955. At the time, we lived in South Carolina, where my daddy pastored Bay Branch FWB Church. While there, he also pursued his master’s degree in missions at Columbia Bible College (now Columbia International University). We eventually moved to Portsmouth, Virginia, where Daddy pastored Collinswood FWB Church. My brother Robin was born in November 1957. Paul was born on my dad’s birthday, February 7, 1959, and Marcia was born the same year in December. They were “Irish twins” (children born in the same year). Our family moved again, this time to Garner, North Carolina, where my dad pastored Garner FWB Church. During these days, my mother became very ill and was diagnosed with cancer. She was in and out of Rex Hospital in Raleigh. Our Granny Nichols moved in to care for us because my dad could not be there all the time. At Christmas 1961, my mother was in the hospital. The four of us children were permitted to go and visit her. The nurses brought her downstairs to a small
room where we all gathered. Even though daddy couldn’t afford to buy us any presents, we had a very special Christmas that year! The wonderful people in our church decided to help my dad. Four couples each took one of our names and bought us a Christmas present. The couple who chose my name gave me a doll that was about the same height as me, and her legs would move like she was walking with me.
I will never forget the kindness and love these people showed four children who couldn’t spend Christmas with their own mother! After Christmas, our mother’s cancer worsened, and she came home from the hospital to die. I was six, Robin five, Paul three, and Marcia was two. April 5, 1962, Leah Waddell died at age 30. I remember standing in the yard when an ambulance came to pick her up. Surrounded by many friends talking, whispering, hugging, and crying, I watched the ambulance drive away. My mind recalls how beautifully dressed she was in the casket. I remember the funeral, and the burial service in Kenly, North Carolina. These memories are sad, but I also have happy memories…especially our last Christmas together. About the Writer: Rhonda Sagraves and her husband, David, currently live in Smyrna, Tennessee, and attend Cofer’s Chapel Free Will Baptist Church. Both are retired and enjoy helping with estate sales. They also love spending time with their six grandchildren.
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By Kristi Johnson
What is WNAC doing well?
What would you like to change about WNAC?
At the National Convention in our WNAC seminar about “The Future of WNAC,” attendees were asked to become a part of future ministry by helping WNAC write its story. A short questionnaire was done, fol lowed by an intriguing conversation that helped all of us focus on what God has in store for WNAC. Three questions were asked:
What part will you pl ay in the future of WNAC?
The answers to these questions give us valuable insight into how Free Will Baptist women envision WNAC now and as we move into the future. According to answers on the questionnaire, ladies feel WNAC…
So, how do we do each of these things? Keep reading...
CARE for Missionaries and Church Planters
29%
The first area that stood out is how well we care for our missionaries and church planters. Approximately 29% of the respondents mentioned supporting, caring for, funding, encouraging, or meeting the needs of missionaries. How are we doing that? We have the Steward Provision Closet, which meets their needs in a very practical way. We also know that WAC groups across the country pray for them, send offerings to their accounts, and make sure they feel special. We are not only a women’s organization, but we participate in the Great Commission by caring for those who serve around the world.
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INVEST in the Next Generation About 18% of the answers related to Shine! and how it impacts the next generation of women. They included these ideas:
> Discipling teens. > Reaching teens! > Getting the younger generation involved.
18%
> Considering the younger women. > Involving more young people on national level. As we look toward the future, women are saying that they truly care about helping the next generation. The Shine! Simulcast included over 800 teen girls last year, and we hope to keep the momentum going this year. While it is a one-day event, our goal is to provide discipleship opportunities throughout the year. God is doing a great work among our teens, and our WNAC ladies are excited about that!
PROVIDE WNAC Resources One WNAC resource women spoke very positively about is the Treasure Bible Study Guide. They were especially vocal about how happy they are to have it back in print. One lady said, “Thank you for reviving Treasure in print!” This return to a printed resource appears to have generated an extra appreciation and excitement, along with a renewed connection with WNAC.
Scan for your copy!
NOTE: Share this magazine with a friend after reading, then encourage her to get a subscription.
BECOME MORE Energetic, Accessible & Connected
11%
Women noted that WNAC is moving in the right direction, using the terms “refreshed excitement” and “energy.” Included in this new energy is an approachability of the leadership of WNAC, which allows for more women to see themselves as a part of the fabric of WNAC and not just as spectators watching the organization from the outside. They now feel they are more connected to missionaries and ministries because of better communications from our WNAC team. Social media, emails, Zoom, and digital resources all allow women to connect on a personal level where they minister as they become a part of what God is doing through WNAC. Not only are we caring for missionaries and church planters around the world, but we are also caring for women right where they live and work.
Approximately 11% of the women mentioned encouraging, loving, promoting, and reaching women of all ages. This relational dimension of WNAC says that women don’t just want programs and information, but they want to know that WNAC sees them, values them, and helps them live out their calling. OCTOBER-DECEMBER
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Final Thoughts from the Questionnaire A few women (only four) noted a limited awareness of WNAC and what it has to offer. This could actually prove that instead of a lack of ministry, WNAC may be doing more than women realize, without a clear understanding of how all the pieces fit together. We hope that through our enhanced communication and growing excitement, women across the denomination will be able to come together to get involved in WNAC on a deeper level.
Let’s Keep This Conversation Going! Maybe you would also like to share your responses to the questions. We’d love to hear from you. Email kristi@nafwb.org and let her know your thoughts. As we continue this conversation, we look forward to hearing what MORE women are saying about WNAC.
What is WNAC doing well? What would you like to change about WNAC? What part will YOU pl ay in the future of WNAC?
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I’m sitting at my desk at the WNAC office during the week after
the Free Will Baptist National Convention with my head still spinning, my feet remembering all the walking in heels, my fingers furiously typing follow-up emails, and my heart full of gratitude. The week at the convention was a blur of activity. But what was my first National Convention as the WNAC director really like? Come walk in my shoes and experience it with me! Let’s start with the week before the convention when I was finalizing details and packing WNAC materials for the convention truck. We made sure the pop-up Provision Closet was ready, extra office supplies were handy, and all the booth exhibit materials were packed. Final PowerPoint presentations were saved to hard drives, finishing touches put on reports and talks, and cards written for people who would help make the convention run more smoothly. That week required sneakers to make the fast-paced steps easier to conquer. From the beginning of the convention on Sunday morning through the powerful Wednesday evening missions service, the schedule was relentless. I had the privilege of speaking eight time: business meetings and seminars, in a breakfast group and on the Vertical Three stage, in an interview with IM, and on a panel discussion with missionaries and church planters. I wondered if my voice would hold out…and if my heels would keep me going! Thankfully, each step was numbered by the One who orchestrated it all. When Thursday morning and the end of the convention rolled around, I took advantage of the hotel’s late checkout to catch up on the sleep I’d missed all week. A few glorious extra minutes in an incredibly comfortable bed were spent reliving each smile, each conversation, each word of encouragement I’d received, and each reminder God is at work among Free Will Baptist ladies. Then it was time to crawl out of bed and put on (you guessed it) comfy shoes for the drive back home.
About the Writer: Kristi Johnson began serving as Executive Director of WNAC in January 2026. Along with her husband, Tim, she invested nearly 25 years as an IM missionary in Spain. Kristi has a deep passion for walking alongside women through friendship and discipleship. Her heart for ministry and her love for coffee keep her fueled and ready to take on the incredible task of leading WNAC with vision and hope into the future.
I imagine the soles of the shoes worn by women across our denomination were a little worse for wear after the convention. But more than anything, I pray their souls were rejoicing and they left the National Convention encouraged, refreshed, and challenged. As they walked in the shoes of missionaries they met, speakers they heard, and women who crossed their paths, it truly was a great convention! I’m so grateful I got to walk through it in my shoes. OCTOBER-DECEMBER
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