Called to Speak: The First Ebenezer Experience at Ebenezer Acres

Published on 16 July 2026 at 08:40

In February 2026, I hosted the very first Ebenezer Experience at our 5-acre hobby farm in Hugo, MN — a sacred space my husband and I named Ebenezer Acres.

This Christian women’s gathering was three years in the making.

When we first moved here, the Lord gave me a vision of women coming together on this land for worship, prayer, and Kingdom equipping. To see that vision realized was deeply humbling.

“Thus far the Lord has helped us.” (1 Samuel 7:12)

That is why we named this place Ebenezer.

A Vision Becoming Reality

Seventeen like-hearted women gathered for worship, prayer, fellowship, a Biblical teaching entitled “Called to Speak,” and group discipleship coaching.

What a gift it was to witness women open their hearts — sharing vulnerably about where they sense the Lord is leading them, the obstacles they face as disciples of Christ, and their deep desire to walk faithfully in their Kingdom calling.

There is something powerful about Christian women gathering intentionally for spiritual growth and leadership development. Not to perform. Not to compare. But to obey.

Hebrews 10:24–25 reminds us:

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together… but encouraging one another.”

That is what this day felt like — encouragement and equipping.

The Great Commission Is a Command

Our discussion centered on the Great Commission:

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” — Matthew 28:19–20

To teach others to obey Jesus, we must first open our mouths and invite them into a conversation about Him.

We are called to speak.

In fact, it’s more than a calling.

It’s a command.

Romans 10:14 says:

“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?”

Someone must speak.

Why not us?

The Four I’s That Hold Us Back

We explored what often prevents us from walking this out — what I call the “Four I’s”:

  • Identification / Identity

  • Influence

  • Intimidation

  • Insecurity / Imposter Syndrome

Each one can quietly silence our obedience and stall our Kingdom impact.

Identification / Identity

If we do not know who we are in Christ, we will hesitate to represent Him.

2 Corinthians 5:20 reminds us:

“We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us.”

Ambassadors speak.

Influence

Who is shaping your thinking more — culture or Christ?

God told Jeremiah:

“You must influence them; do not let them influence you!” — Jeremiah 15:19

Kingdom women are called to influence, not blend in.

Intimidation

Fear of rejection. Fear of conflict. Fear of being misunderstood.

But 2 Timothy 1:7 tells us:

“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”

Insecurity / Imposter Syndrome

“Who am I to speak?”

Acts 4:13 says of Peter and John:

“They were unschooled, ordinary men… and they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.”

You don’t need perfection.

You need proximity.

 

No matter how you join, remember this:

You are called to speak.

Not perfectly. Not loudly. Not with all the answers.

But faithfully.

There is someone in your life who needs your obedience, your courage, and your voice.

May we be women who open our mouths and trust the Holy Spirit to fill them.

Reflection Questions:

As you reflect on your own Kingdom calling, consider:

  • Where do you find your identity?

  • Who is influencing you most right now?

  • How does intimidation silence your voice?

  • What insecurities surface when you begin to share Jesus with others?

  • Who in your life needs an invitation into a conversation about Christ?

  • Where might God be asking you to speak — even if your voice trembles?