Proverbs 31:10 A woman of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.
Hope is powerful. When present, it lightens even the heaviest load; when absent, small obstacles feel insurmountable. Virginia knows this reality well.
The clutches of extreme poverty stole Virginia’s hope. Living day-to-day, she attempted to make ends meet the best she could. Although industrious, sharp, and possessing a strong work ethic, lack of opportunity smothered her.
An entrepreneur at heart, Virginia would buy cooking ingredients like sugar, flour, and baking powder, and sell them on the street for a profit. This work helped sustain her for a time.
She met and married her husband, Peter, and had two children, David and Mary. Her husband, a day laborer, struggled to find consistent work, and her own resale business dwindled. She could not see light at the end of the tunnel.
But God was about to provide an opportunity in the form of a fledgling ministry just beginning to put down roots in Virginia’s community.
Proverbs 31:17 She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.
Virginia’s home was near her local faith family, Hope Church. She helped clean the facilities before services and helped in other roles where she could, always looking to provide for her family. When Micah McElveen first arrived in Kawangware in 2005, prior to the first Vapor Ministries center being built, he began coming to Hope Church where he shared the vision for the ministry. Virginia felt aligned with Micah’s vision and values and sought to meet with him.
“When Vapor Ministries was starting, I was in Hope Church,” Virginia said. “I met Micah and requested a job, because I was struggling financially. I was not in a position to pay rent or feed my family. It was not an easy life.”
After Micah vetted Virginia through her pastor and learned of Virginia’s strong work ethic, she was hired onto the Grounds Crew and has been a key member of the team from that day. Virginia has held several jobs and has served in multiple volunteer roles. She currently serves as the Discipleship League Leader for the U8 division and works as a member of the cleaning crew. She credits Vapor Ministries for not only allowing her to provide a more sustainable economic situation for her family, but also for helping to grow her relationship with God.
Proverbs 31:26 She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
“Vapor Ministries has changed my life in many ways,” Virginia said. “Now I help change the lives of many people and spread the word of God. Vapor Ministries is encouraging people to know Christ. I am praying for it to expand throughout the world.”
Many of the full-time, part-time, and volunteer team members at Vapor Ministries are strong women of faith like Virginia. Women who are taking the gospel to the lost, feeding hungry bellies, leading teams, and so much more to the glory of God. Your partnership makes it possible for women like Virginia to care for their families and reach the lost in their communities. Thank you!
Proverbs 31: Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
