Have you ever had a time when you needed to hear a word of encouragement from a loved one or a friend?
Perhaps there have been times when just a few words from someone of trust would give you that extra push
you needed to forge ahead in spite of your circumstances. Family and friends may sincerely love us, but
there is no love like the love of God. People will not always be available, but the presence of God is never
ending. He will speak to your spirit at the most unexpected times.
Many of these messages spoke comfort to my heart more than twenty-five years ago when I was enduring
great struggles and trudging through challenging times. There are other messages that gave me divine
direction during more current situations. During the seasons when I took on caring for elderly family
members, God spoke strength to my weariness. When finances were challenged, God spoke peace to my
soul. In times of fear and when doubts plagued my own God-given abilities, God spoke courage to my
heart. When I felt lost, confused, disappointed, at an energy deficit, or just desperately needed to smile,
God provided the words of assurance and hope that helped me to press onward.
The power, grace and love of God spoken in His words of hope are timeless! I am so grateful for His
patience with me because I am finally heeding the call to share these messages with you. It is my prayer that
you will also find hope, healing, and great grace in these words from God. Let Him speak to you! Pass a
message on to someone longing to be blessed! Allow God to encourage you! Let Him put a smile on your
face! Trust Him to guide you! I promise you, He will carry you through every situation!
Listen...God has Messages of Hope!
Rev. Dr. Lorraine Ruff Castain is an Ordained Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME). She serves in ministry at Bethel AME Church, Baltimore, MD. She holds a Doctorate of Ministry degree from Wesley Theological Seminary. Her doctoral project, "Partners in Faith and Action - A Statement of Agreement Between the AME Church and Reform Judaism" examines the possibilities and social impact of a viable relationship between the two faith groups in the pursuit of addressing the challenges of social justice and community outreach. Dr. Lorraine is dedicated to the encouragement of men, women and children to pursue their goals and reach their God ordained destiny. In March 2017, she established Sisters Assembled Leading Thousands Embracing Destiny (SALTED, Inc.). The organization works diligently to provide clothing, toiletries and food to individuals in Baltimore and various cities in Maryland. SALTED, Inc. is also available to offer guidance and comfort to women facing health issues, grief and devastating losses and other life changing circumstances. As one who promotes the wellness of mind and spirit, Dr. Lorraine frequently hosts "Nugget of SALT" Facebook Live broadcasts to engage others in conversations focused on personal and spiritual growth. Dr. Lorraine has been married to her husband Thaddeus for over 33 years. She and her husband enjoy helping others in their church and community.
