Welcome to ‘WHILE I PONDER with Karlene.’
Sharing words is my way of encouraging others. It’s in the beautiful and difficult of life that these stories are forged.
From a young age, I’ve been a ponder-er, wishful thinker, and dreamer. In this space, I strive to connect my pondering with God’s Word and His love for us.
Today, I’m a wife, mom, Gigi, friend, author, blogger, minister, and servant of God. Most days, you can find me writing at the computer, or spending time with my adorably wild grandsons.
Become a Subscriber
Free Subscribers will hear from me in a monthly email newsletter (sometimes more)! Coming soon, you’ll be able to upgrade to Paid Subscriber, and receive additional content and resources, like…
“Deeper Dive” essays, exploring Scripture and application (paid subscribers only)
“Q&A Chat Sessions” here on Substack (paid subscribers only) and for your own God-conversations + full archive of community discussions
“The Fast 5” of what I’m reading and loving with resource links + more candid heart-pondering from me (paid subscribers only)
“This Joy is Yours” free e-course (paid subscribers only)
Access to the full archives of essays
Remember, free subscribers will always receive the free newsletter(s), and occasional content. If you’ve not subscribed, here’s the link for a free subscription…
Why offer a paid subscription?
If you’re wondering why I’d invite you to pay for something you’ve been receiving for free, I offer this explanation.
First, paid subscriptions aren’t meant to create a barrier, but a way to support me and my work. It’s also a way to create a quieter, more private space in the digital world—a space for more candid writing and conversation—a place where you can feel safe, as well.
What I’m doing for the paid subscribers is more than I’ve ever done before. The ‘Q & A Chat Sessions’ are a whole new experience, and I’m excited to see how God uses them. ‘Deeper Dive’ is helping me to provide a more intense look into Scripture and devotional content.
I’ve been blogging for over a decade. Over the years, I’ve tried most of the things—podcasting, Zoom-led Bible studies, Facebook Groups, and more. Here’s what I now know. Writing the words God gives me is what I love doing, and this seems to resonate with others.
The truth is, this work of writing is a ministry—serving readers with words of encouragement, inspiration, and life-changing biblical insight, as led by the Spirit of God.
If you find yourself interested in upgrading to a paid subscription, perhaps consider the cost an offering to support the ministry that readers like yourself receive here.
COMING SOON: Subscription upgrade to While I Ponder with Karlene is only $5/month USD ($30/annual USD—a bargain).
And, if you decide not to upgrade, I’ll gladly continue sending the free newsletter editions to your email. You are always welcome here!
To those who are in a season of financial hardship, and unable to work the cost of a paid subscription into the monthly budget, I do not want this to be a hindrance. Once I launch the paid subscription option, send me a message at whileiponderkarlene@substack.com. We’ll find a way to sort it out. (I especially want to make this available to single moms, retirees on a fixed income, and those caught in extreme financial hardship.)
You’ll also find me here » INSTAGRAM — PINTEREST
On ministry, work, education…
Born the daughter of a preacher, I literally grew up on the front row of the church. For most of my adult life, I've worked as an administrative assistant in the Christian nonprofit arena. I’ve served the Church at the local level, district, international, and university. For the past decade, I've served on the board of trustees and as a virtual assistant for a Christian nonprofit. I hold a Master of Ministry from Southwestern Christian University.
On faith and purpose…
I believe…my primary purpose is to bring glory to God. Some days I fall short but, by God's grace, I can get up tomorrow and try again.
I believe…the Bible is the Word of God, the full and complete revelation of the plan and history of redemption for mankind.
I believe…we are meant to enjoy life and in doing so, we demonstrate the joy and freedom we have as children of God.
To find out more about the tech for this newsletter, visit Substack.com.
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