About the Author

Robin is the author of For All Who Wander, her relatable memoir about wrestling with doubt that reads much like a conversation with a friend. She's as Southern as sugar-shocked tea, married to her college sweetheart, and has three children. An empty nester with a full life, she's determined to...

(in)side DaySpring: things we love
& you will too!
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(in)side DaySpring:
things we love
& you will too!
Find more at
DaySpring.com
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Comments

  1. Robin,
    I’d be happy to share one (or a thousand) ways (in)courage has encouraged me. I began reading at the very beginning. At that time, I was going through a very painful drawn-out divorce. My self esteem and sense of identity were at an all-time low. I knew what it felt like to be completely abandoned and cast aside. My faith was floundering and I had also lost my job. In short, I was a hot mess!! I do believe God led me to (in)courage where I found writers who were real and talked about the gritty stuff of life. It wasn’t just a bunch of flowery fluff. (in)courage came alongside me, like a good friend, and gave me strength by reminding me of who I was in God’s eyes. Each day was a struggle but y’all made it just a little bit easier. Seeing where God has brought me in ten years makes me want to give back all the more out of the blessings He’s bestowed upon me. I count my friends at (in)courage among my greatest blessings! You were/are a safe port in a storm!
    With love and thanks,
    Bev xx

    • {{{happy hugs}}}

      Bev, the love, encouragement, and wisdom you share both within and without our community is a GIFT! SO thankful for YOU and how our paths continue to cross! xo

      • Robin,
        So glad God caused our paths to cross! My heart still “dances” (after all these years) when your face and name appear as the writer for the day 🙂 Cheering you on in your latest writing endeavors!! xo

    • Bev –
      When I read the question that asked me to name one way that (in)courage has been a blessing, I immediately thought of you. I always know that I will read your comments and when I share my own struggles that you are right there to lift me up.

      Thank You,
      Elizabeth

      • Elizabeth,
        You are so sweet! When I first came to (in)courage, my life waa a mess and so many women encouraged me. I promised that if I ever got a chance I would pay it forward. I know God will bring you through this and one day you’ll be blessing others. You already bless me!
        Love,
        Bev xo

  2. I had no inkling of all this great history, Robin! Thank you for your perseverance in this community, and I’m also grateful for the opportunity (in)courage offers to connect with so many women over TRUE words. This is a safe and positive community, and so whether I am offering my words here in the comment section or as a guest contributor, I have always been met with grace from other readers.

    • {{Michele}} Ha–I had linked about a dozen times in this post; wherever it mentions anything about our history, I had a link. That’s against our writing protocol (because it would have readers jumping from here to there and not very convenient), so I took most of them out. That being said, I DO hope readers will check out our history because it’s SO interesting for those who follow us (it can be found in the Meet tab above). Thank YOU for being one of our devoted readers AND commenters!

  3. I have been a reader of incourage for many years and your contributors always have something to say that touches my heart. I await eagerly each morning for my daily email…and more times than not, the message is exactly what I need to continue on with my day. Thank you to all the writers.

    • Stacy, This is my favorite thing–when I read the EXACT thing I “needed” to that day. God is so gracious to provide, isn’t he? Thank you :).

  4. I was immediately drawn to (in)courage several years ago by the poignancy and transparency of the writing. Often in Christian community, women tend to shy away from the rough, messy stuff, favoring their “Sunday best.” True encouragement comes from honest authencity not a photoshop faith.

    • “True encouragement comes from honest authenticity not a photoshop faith.” I’ll second that, Denise! I know our collective heart is to share the “me, too” moments that invite friends into our stuff (and visa versa). So glad you’re here :).

  5. I have posted a lot of prayer requests with my struggles in getting out of an abusive relationship. I know that God is inviting me to use this trial in some way – supporting women? working to change the laws? I’m not really certain. I just hope that I will be able to use my pain to prevent other women from going through what I did.

    • Elizabeth,

      That first prayer request must’ve been so hard; admitting your need and the truth of your circumstances. Thank you for being a woman of courage by inviting us into your life, and I pray God uses your circumstances to help others. Your comment reminded me of one of my favorite, clung-to scriptures, 2 Corinthians 1:4:

      (CSB) He comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction, through the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

  6. Robin, your words (then and now) are such a testimony of God’s goodness! Thank you for the extra “push” to step forward into Jesus’ invitation. Who knows where He will take us and what He can do in a decade. 🙂

    For me, about 2 years ago I read a book by Holley Gerth and in her bio section she mentioned (in)courage. I checked it out online and immediately FELL IN LOVE with the heart behind this community. I told my husband, “Babe, these are my people. They speak my heart language.” And you all still do. Thank you for listening closely to Jesus and writing words that come straight from Him. Your stories have made such a difference in my life.

    I feel like I am sitting down everyday, having coffee with all my (in)courage friends. 🙂 You ladies are changing the world.

    Love,
    Becky

  7. (in)Courage & 5 minute Friday’s were this hub of community for me back in 2012, 13, 14 that formed the core of my sense of connectedness and belonging as a writer. Some of my closest friendships, still, were forged in these online spaces. I’m grateful. ♥️

    • Dana!!! I’m so glad to learn this; I guess our paths first crossed through (in)courage? It’s so hard to remember, but I sure am glad they did. 🙂 <3

  8. I’m 61, raised and homeschooled five children over 25 years, and live in a rural setting-population 25. Yes, 25. Because of the call we felt to homeschool, and the fact that I’m an introvert, I was not out in the surrounding communities very often during our homeschooling years. Our church home is 50 miles away, so midweek opportunities for fellowship haven’t always been possible. We’ve been empty nesters for only 3 years and that’s about the time I came across this ministry. Every morning does indeed feel like sharing a cup of coffee with a sister. This morning, I appreciated seeing Colossians 2:2 in light of this ministry, the idea of a “best yes” (not a phrase I have heard before but find very encouraging) and your statement,” Saying yes to God when He’s inviting you to something new — even when you’re struggling in life, faith, or calling — is one of the bravest things you can do.” Thank you for a beautiful and encouraging ministry!

    • Oh…Sherrill…I’m SO GLAD you found us!! I’m an empty nester, too; though my youngest left over four years ago to attend college, something about him graduating and accepting a job made “empty nest” feel different. I didn’t expect that. But your words here are fuel to keep going, encouraging me to continue writing as the Lord leads, trusting that He will be the one guiding women to our little community when He sees fit.

      BTW, there are lots of introverts who write for (in)courage :). And…homeschooling for 25 years? Have you read Dawn Camp here at (in)courage? She’s a homeschooling mom of 8 children, so I bet y’all could swap some tales :).

  9. I don’t remember when I stumbled upon this wonderful community, but you all have traveled through many seasons with me, including working from home, then a divorce, and now into a ministry “job.” Oh, the irony of this all. Don’t forget! I’ve also changed churches and moved states during this time frame as well. So many changes. I’ve entered many a giveaway on your site and won several times. People have asked me my “secret.” Thanks for being there during all of the changes in life. I appreciate this community more than I can say!

    • Heidi,

      Wow…ten years holds such much life, doesn’t it? I’m so thankful (in)courage has been a soft place to land, a community to hold you and always point you to Jesus. That makes the hard parts getable-throughable, doesn’t it?

  10. inCOURAGE.me you’ve been a huge blessing over the past 10 years. August 2009..the 12th to be exact…changed my life. I came through trauma I never planned to experience thanks to the courage shared by your team. Praise & blessings always,
    Trish

  11. Happy 10th Anniversary I have been following (in) courage since the beginning. The authenticity of the writers and reminders to savor God’s intentional love weave throughout each post. I cherish and savor mornings when I get to dive into the thoughts and reflections of each written gift. I even have a folder in my inbox where I save little blips of encouragement so I can reflect on them time and again. I am so grateful for the collection of voices, whose stories, vulnerability, celebrations, and challenges have met me in different seasons. It’s such a relief to know I am not alone. We are on the same team. We can pray for each other. Hope and encouragement do not have to be tangible they just need to inspire and soothe the recipient. The precious gifts of hope and encouragement (in)courage provides are gifts I breathe in every morning, revealing the heart of our Savior even more, whispering to my soul to be imperfectly brave, and live loved. Thank you!

    • Oh, Lindsey,

      Your words here are light and life. Thank you for taking time to share your thoughts. You’ve captured the heart of who we are <3.

  12. Wow… blogging was such a huge out of the comfort zone step for me…incourage and the other blogging communities were such a gift and a huge part of a healing process I was going through…this sweet place and the other groups hold a precious space in my heart…and I am so grateful you and others stepped out and made a safe space for all women to gather and share!!!

    • Ro, Time flies when you’re having fun………..but not so much when you’re healing and getting through a difficult season. I’m so thankful for you, and how YOU encourage others!

  13. Thank you, Robin! I’m glad that you had your ” Best yes” here and I’ve been here for several years now. Sorry, I lost track. You women have become my morning devotional with my coffee. This is how I start my day, with y’all a group of ” friends”. It’s so comforting as I know y’all are real and your struggles and accomplishments are mine as well. No matter how much of a mess we are, Jesus loves us just as we are.

    Whew, I’ve been through many tough days due to multiple illnesses and y’all are often my saving grace.

    For myself, I was recently asked to write a column for one of my rare diseases. I was hesitant but it was so exciting and I agreed. This has been fun and helps me help others. Writing can be so therapeutic for me as well. I’ve now been writing for about 6 weeks. Thank y’all for encouraging me to stay courageous.

    • Wow, Jen…your life is such an example of taking what you’ve been given, and using it to help others and shine the glory to God. What a perfect example, and thank you for taking time to let us know. Keep writing! 🙂

  14. Robin, I’ve been a part of this listening community maybe for a couple of years now. I’m sorry I can’t share just one instance of your helping me. But I remember often passing your work onto others when it seemed like the perfect story to brighten their day or help them through a hard time. I’ve shared the writings on Facebook and through Messenger. And I’ve asked my daughters, “Did you see…?” . Thank you for being here for all of us.

    • Irene, The particulars don’t matter as much as your being encouraged and then passing it on. Oh, that does my own heart good. I love that (in)courage is something you share with your daughters, too. So sweet :).

  15. Hi Robin,
    I’m not sure when I first joined the email list for (in)courage, but all you writers have brought such wisdom, hope and naturally, encouragement! I enjoy your writing as you always inject a little humour into your post. Numerous times, you or someone else has written something I definitely needed to “hear.” At the bible study that I attend, I am one of the ladies who bring devotionals several times a year. I always find something appropriate from (in)courage to share.

    Thanks for being here! Sandy

    P.S. Speaking of bible studies, have you written any books that could be used in that context?

    • Hi Sandy,

      Our God is a God of Providence, isn’t He? The way He places resources right along our path that help us to know Him better or to be encouraged, or to grow in our faith? I love that.

      Do you happen to have one of the (in)courage Bibles? It has AMAZING reading plans connected to scripture and then also devotionals many different writers contributed. (Or were you asking me if *I* had written a Bible study? 🙂 )

  16. Pretty sure that I’ve been with you guys since the beginning, though I don’t necessarily remember that very first post (#61yearstakeatoll)! But I do remember SO so many posts! I especially remember being encouraged by Sara (GitzenGirl) before she left us – talk about praising Him in the storm! I remember learning to love haiku, crying over Angie Smith’s posts, being in awe of Holley’s words and feeling like I was your and Lisa-Jo’s older sister! Thank you all for being so faithful to us then and now – i’m excited to see where God leads you/us next.

    • Elaine…….Sara was such a special part of our community…gone way too soon. Such lovely memories with some of our writers who’ve moved on from our little community. I’m so glad each lady was here in the season she was; and that means readers, too. Whether you came early on or much later, it’s an honor to have you here. ((hugs))

  17. I KNOW THAT GOD IS USING YOU ALL TO SPEAK DIRECTLY TO ME SO THAT I CAN HEAR HIS VOICE IN WHATEVER STRUGGLE I AM GOING THRU. IT’S LIKE HE’S SAYING ONLY TO ME – “YOU ARE LOVED AND NOT FORSAKEN AND I WILL DO ANYTHING FOR YOU BECASUE YOU ARE MY SPECIAL TREASURE”.

    THANKS TO ALL OF YOU BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTERS OF THE MOST HIGH KING WHO SHARE YOUR VULNERABILITIES WITH US. IT HELPS SO MUCH MORE THAN YOU KNOW.

    • Tammie,

      What a strong word of encourage you’ve offered back to our community. We celebrate the way God uses ALL of us to love on and encourage one another! Thank you for adding your affirmation, and I pray God’s blessings on you today :).

  18. Happy 10 Year Anniversary! I found (in)courage in 2012 when I was following Ann Voskamp’s blog (still do), and I have followed since then. It has been a blessing to me and to others due to such a lift of our souls because we are NOT alone in this chaotic world that is spiraling out of control and is so distant from our Heavenly Father.
    THANK YOU for all you do, contributors!
    Let us all pray for (in)courage to continue for many more years to come!
    Gratefully,
    Carrie

    • Carrie,

      Yes…yes!! Many more years, Lord? Please? 🙂 It is so FUN to discover all the different ways people were led to (in)courage. It reminds me how connected we are in the body of Christ, ya know? xo

  19. Robin! I love this post! I’ve been around since almost the very beginning. I read words that often told my story and my heart. They spoke of God’s great love and grace and the work of His Spirit. Each word was written by women who became friends and family. This sisterhood has become the greatest joy in my life!!! Y’all have walked with me though every high and low. I treasure each of you and this whole community! May God continue to faithfully show up in this space with His lovingkindness.

    • Karina,

      As long as I can think back on (in)…I know you’ve been right there. Yours is a lovely story of receiving and giving, and I’m so glad you’re a part of this community as both a consumer and contributor <3. xo

  20. I have been encouraged, lifted up, rejoicing, etc. for the past ten years with the words of wisdom that I have been blessed to read and forward to others who were going through. Happy Anniversary. Continue what you are doing. Thank you for offering words that are just for that particular time.

    • Janet,

      What a beautiful song of praise; I keep hearing it over and over in different ways: words spoken just when “I” needed to hear them. What a blessing, gift, kindness God has extended to all of us :).

  21. Robin, I’m a big fan of yours & enjoy reading all of your posts. I try to start out my day reading a devotional & ask God who I should share this one with to encourage. Many times I’ll forward it out to both of my daughter-in-laws along with some very precious friends. Every one of the writers has blessed me & I’m so thankful that you have included me in your devotionals. I don’t know how many years I’ve been doing this, my guess would be 4 years maybe more. Lord bless you as you bless others!!! Barbara Rothman, Paso Robles Calif

    • Barbara,

      🙂 Time can be seamless, can’t it? I’m just glad you’ve been “here” whenever that began. The Lord knew when a word of encouragement would be what you needed, and I think it’s beautiful you don’t just keep it to yourself–you point countless others to Jesus. Thank you for YOUR ministry of encouragement!

  22. Thank you for starting 10 years ago and continuing!!!
    I found DaySpring’s (in)courage community this year and it has become my online home/home-page…

  23. I found (in)courage in 2012 and have NEVER read a post that did not speak truth and encouragement to my spirit. THANK YOU to all for persevering! As it happens, I have said yes to something new just recently: to be on the women’s ministry team at our church. (We moved to our current home five years ago and have been attending this church–with our son and his family–for about three years.) Most of the women are much younger than I am; I feel a bit out of place! But the others on the team have been very warm and welcoming. My God-given role may very well be spiritual mother–to pray for, support, and encourage these women and others in our church. P.S. I’m going to need courage to attend an upcoming retreat with all these “youngsters!”

    • Nancy,

      Wowowow…thank you for giving us a glimpse of what (in)courage has meant to you. I’m so GLAD to hear about your new “yes.” 🙂 It sounds to me, though you feel a little out of place, you’re exactly where you NEED to be, and those younger women NEED what you have to offer! They may not know it yet, but they’ll find out soon enough :). I’m praying for you to become increasingly close to Jesus, so his strength pours into you, imparting the courage you’ll need to equip you to do his work. Wahooo!

  24. Robin,

    Happy Anniversary/Birthday In Courage!! May God continue to bless you all in ways you never imagined.
    Been here since the beginning. Seen a lot of changes for the good. I was working full-time in university. That was the year mom died. Since then I have gone through many medical issues with my aging dad until his death. Now I work part time clerical in a hospital ICU Step down unit. I’ve been blessed to share my knowledge with others here. I’ve had the pleasure of following some commenters, like Bev & pray for them. I’ve gotten to know a lot of the writers & prayed for them specifically. Followed some bloggers to their websites & podcasts. In Courage has opened a whole new world for me. I’ve been blessed to be on several book launches-I’m on two now. Just loved the title you chose for this post. Reminds me of Lysa Terkeurst’s “The Best Yes” book & Bible study. Congratulations to you on your book. May God continue to bless you all & guide in the path He has chosen. I pray the book goes well.

    Blessings 🙂

    Look forward to reading this daily.

    • Beth, you are definitely one of our “Chief Encouragement Officers.” Thank you for always reading and responding in a way that tells us you’re paying attention. You HAVE gone through so much over the past ten years, and I’ve always noticed the way you lean on the Lord. What an example for good times and hard times. xo

  25. I enjoy incourage so much! Reading the stories each day and praying for and with others has been such a blessing in my life. Many times incourage has brought me the right words at the right time! Thank you and God bless you all! ❤️

    • Stephanie,

      See? Another time where a writer gets to connect with a reader and point her to Jesus in His perfect timing. That makes me want to shout hallelujah! Thank you for joining us :).

  26. Robin, I just love you and how you’ve taken us all on this incredible stroll down memory lane. God has been so faithful! I can’t wait to continue to celebrate (in)courage’s tenth birthday in lots of fun ways in the weeks and months to come!

    • Becky,

      You have NO idea friend; I discovered ALL these early emails from Holley and Stephanie and it took me back to those humble beginnings. You can tell they had a vision, but they weren’t even sure where we’d go. Milestones always leave me pensive…and for Grace’s sake I made this as short as I could (did she tell you I linked like crazy?????? I COULDN’T HELP IT! There are so many stories to tell!!! 🙂 I love YOU and I’m so thankful you’re a part, leading our community. xo

  27. I have been getting in(courage) devotions emailed to me at least 2 or so years now. I love the group of courageous, convicted Christian writers. The devotions always challenge me to be better & do more for others. I tend to share a number of the devotions with friends that may be struggling with topics discussed in the devotions. Thanks to in(courage) writers and the entire team behind the scenes, too for speaking God’s word to so many on a daily basis. I have also purchased a number of books, cards, & gifts over the years as well.

    • Erin, a kind word like you’ve offered us today is like an invisible paycheck; it invests something important in our love tanks. Thank you for being so specific, and for sharing the words that God first gives to us (as writers). To hear how we might’ve blessed even one person is a precious thing. I am so grateful for your lovingkindness today. 🙂

  28. So many women involved for so many years, I’m quite new to this special invitation to come & share just as you are. The messages are real & relatable … life changing. I have shared a previous post just today with a friend to encourage him … (its not just us girls you are touching). You have inspired me to pick up my Bible & join in this journey with you. Blessings to all x

    • Carol,

      I am so glad you aren’t just sitting and soaking, but diving into the Word and sharing it with others. As the (in)community sows into you, you’re going and sowing into others. Well done!!

  29. Hi! God is inviting me to a whole new everything right now! My husband and I are in the process of divorce (and selling our house), I am in the process of looking for a new job and moving several states away . . .so just about everything is going to be new for me! Except, God thought, right?! Because regardless of what we are going through God is the same today, tomorrow, and forever and what a blessing! To me courage is doing what it takes to be your authentic self no mater how much it hurts or how scary it is or how alone you feel. Stepping out in excitement or fear or both and knowing that through Him we can do all things. Trust in God = courage. So, this has been a particularly tough year for me actually probably more realistic to stay super painful starting last October. I didn’t know about this community but some time right around the new year, maybe even New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day, i was scrolling on my phone at night in bed and i believe i saw something on facebook about my word of the year and answered some questions and was email a word. i remember things feeling bleak and falling asleep and then reading the next day that my word for the year was “courage”! Perfect because I’ve probably never needed courage more than I do now! So, that lead me to sign-up for whatever was available in the email which brought to this wonderful community of truth, reality, love, kindness, prayer, and understanding. I feel very blessed to be part of this community, I need a supportive tribe of wonderful sisters more than I ever have so please know that reading your emails, stories, prayers, and learning from you and your lives means the world to me! Thank you so much!!

    • Kimberly,

      You are walking a long, hard road; I am so thankful you “stumbled” onto our community, landing in a place that will always point you to Jesus. When you encounter the living God, it’s impossible not to be changed :). (I call that kind of “coincidence” a God wink :). )

      • Thank you, Robin! I’m very grateful that this community presented itself to me right at the perfect time, I agree that’s a God wink 🙂 . Don’t ever doubt that all of you ladies are doing something wonderful here; this community is a blessing!

  30. Ten years! TEN! YEARS! What on earth. Oh, my friend, I am so grateful to (in)courage for a thousand reasons. But one big one FOR SURE is my friendship with YOU. Sending you all the heart eyes right now as I sit in thankfulness. xoxo

  31. Happy 10 years to (in)courage! I remember your very first post. In fact, it is one I have thought of several times over the past ten years. I am still so thankful that you shared about your courageous mom. Her story, your story, has helped to give me courage as a mom. When you wrote about your mom, I was pregnant with my daughter. My little girl is now 9 years old. My three year old is now 13. And last year God surprised us with another little blessing! He is now a year old. I have had some scary health crashes over the past 10 years, but I am still here, still mothering, and still loving my children. I can be out of bed for 4 or 5 hours a day currently, and I am mostly homebound, but knowing what an impact your mom had on you has helped me to know that I am having an impact on my children, even with my limitations. Thank you for sharing your story. Thank you for writing faithfully here at (in)courage for ten years! May the Lord bless you as you continue to serve Him!

  32. Though I don’t always read consistently, I’ve been here since the beginning, likely having learned about (in)courage from you since we were blog friends back then. I’m always encouraged, challenged, or enlightened when I read the posts here and I’m so grateful for everyone who has contributed to this site and to the hearts of women everywhere. Thank you, Robin, for all you’ve shared through the years. Love you, girl!