Triumphing Over Challenges with Faith: Elder Terry Henson’s Inspiring Journey
“Faith for Fiery Trials” Volume III is a book that focuses on triumphing over challenges with faith. It is a collection of stories and experiences that inspire readers to face their own trials with faith and determination. In a recent interview, one of the co-authors, Elder Terry Henson, shared her personal journey and inspiring story.
“I would describe my personal journey as varied and dynamic,” she said. “Varied because at an early age, I developed ambitious habits and a work ethic that has served me well throughout my life.” Henson was that eager-eyed 14-year-old kid with a work permit and a summer job. She was always excited to show up for work and had a natural bent toward administrative processes and project management work.
At an early age, Henson had opportunities to work with career professionals and learned a variety of skills that allowed her to excel once she entered the federal workforce. Her time in private industry and Fortune 500 companies instilled a level of discipline and attention to detail that has benefited every aspect of her life. “I also regard the journey as dynamic because I’ve witnessed so much transition and change in the workforce since I entered over 46 years ago,” she added.
Throughout her career, Henson has faced many challenges, from workplace discrimination to personal struggles. But her faith has been a constant source of strength and inspiration. “Experiencing workplace discrimination was by far the worst experience of my career,” she said. “At that point in my life, I knew what faith was and what it could do. I had survived so many other challenges and obstacles to which faith was the key, and in this instance, it was my inspiration to become a co-author in the Faith for Fiery Trials – Volume III Book Project. I had a story and wanted to tell it, in hopes that it would help and bless others.”
Henson’s chapter in the book describes the feeling of being suspended between two realities, one where God is able and the other where the pain of the situation hurts like hell. “I had been taught that God brings an answer to prayer at the moment it gives Him the most glory,” she said. “I was assured He wouldn’t leave me in the situation a minute too long nor take me out a second too soon. It was at this point I realized that I would have to bear the weight of this situation regardless, so at that moment, I chose my wait!”
She exercised her faith and waited for God to shift and change the situation. “I got busy doing, giving, and serving and became determined to not only survive the trial but to thrive,” she said. Henson’s faith has played a significant role in overcoming challenges. “I’ve had many mountains and valleys along the way, and faith has been the bedrock, unmovable foundation that’s kept me standing,” she said. “There were many moments of bending but not breaking, and it’s been because of faith in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
Her story is a testament to the power of faith and determination. As readers delve into her chapter, they will find themselves inspired and encouraged to face their own trials with faith as their guide. “I hope readers will take away five key lessons from my story,” she said. “It’s all working for my Good. Romans 8:28 (NIV) says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” My understanding and application of this scripture have evolved as I’ve matured in my faith. For the fiery trial, it said to me, “If it all works for my good, then everything matters!” The discomfort, pain, frustration, anxiety, doubt, embarrassment, anger, etc. It all matters because, ultimately, those lemons became lemonade sweetened with God’s grace and favor. And like a tall glass of ice-cold lemonade quenches the thirst on a hot summer day, the cup I now drink refreshes me and gives me strength for the journey ahead.”
Henson also hopes readers will learn that “God is a fan of the process! Some would say, “It’s not what you go through but how you go through it.” I’m convinced that God orders my steps, and nothing goes to waste in a fiery trial. Not your pain, disappointment, fear, or frustration. God wastes nothing!”
Another lesson Henson hopes readers will take away is to “never let ’em see you sweat! Practicing this sentiment helped me survive the fiery trial. It’s about putting on your armor, standing up straight, and walking with confidence. It’s about keeping your head up and your eyes focused on the prize.”
She also wants readers to know that “God is always on time. He’s never too late, and He’s never too early. He’s always right on time. He has a plan, and it’s always the best plan. We just need to trust Him.”
Finally, Henson hopes readers will understand that “with faith, all things are possible. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. With faith, we can move mountains. With faith, we can overcome any challenge. With faith, we can live a life of purpose and meaning.”
As readers finish her chapter, they will feel inspired and ready to face their own challenges with faith and determination. Her story is a reminder that even in our darkest moments, we can emerge victorious with faith as our guide. As she puts it, “I am a living testament that faith can move mountains.”
To continue learning from Elder Terry Henson’s journey and experiences in faith, readers can connect with her via her Facebook and Instagram profiles.
www.facebook.com/terry.henson.927
www.instagram.com/terryhensonimpact
