Women at Shepherd’s Gate shelter studying the Bible together
My name is Marcia, and I am overjoyed to let everyone know at this point in my life I am living at Miracle Hill Shepherd’s Gate shelter. COVID-19 has not caught me off guard. I am watching and waiting for the return of my Redeemer (Jesus), and I see scripture being fulfilled. What I didn’t see was how that perfect Shepherd was leading me to a place where I would be loved, protected and have all my needs cared for.
I came to Greenville from another state, never even imagining I could or would become homeless. Most of the women here feel the same way, some having been put out of their homes, some having lost a loved one who supported them, some a loss of income due to health issues, some physically abused, some getting off of substances and trying to decipher the reasons that got them on drugs in the first place.
This Too Will Pass
Becoming homeless strikes your hope. We really have to remember this too will pass. It’s just a temporary thing. We have to fight depression, feelings of failure, defeat and rejection. I can say I truly believe the staff serving over this shelter understand that.
I became homeless some time ago and had been working to save money and get a place. Since being laid off because of COVID-19 I found myself feeling unuseful, wanting to look for work but still stay out of the public, somewhat fearful. All I could say is, “God, I will trust you.” During a visit to the prayer room provided here at Miracle Hill, God reminded me of 2 Timothy 1:7, “He has not given you a spirit of fear but of love, power and a sound mind.”
Next thing I knew I was working in the kitchen here, not a paying job but a way to serve and take my mind off of me. These days at the shelter have been a daily test for so many women who have to be in and out of work, some with children and most wondering what’s next.
Angels Watching Over Us
I would like to speak for the body of women here at the shelter and say we have angels watching over us in the volunteers and women who give selflessly, who we know we could never repay. I can say at this point in our lives knowing we are in the presence of women who have been sent here to minister to us with all the qualities it takes to keep us moving forward is more than a double blessing.
Psalm 91 is my go-to scripture. “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust. I am abiding in Him, and this is my place of refuge.’ ”
We have to praise God for Minda, Grace, Kim and Dana, staff who give devotions twice a day and pep talks, lead us into prayer and worship of God, and give any counseling we feel we need. We are given three meals a day, all donations from loving, caring people we may never know. I pray God will bless tenfold each and every one. I will be forever grateful to Him for the loving hearts He has given them.
Post submitted by Marcia, a guest at Miracle Hill Shepherd’s Gate who wanted to share her experience. Shepherd’s Gate is a 62-bed homeless shelter for women and children.
