Voice of Truth Stories

MEET MARLI BROWN FROM GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN

My husband and I bought a house in Grand Rapids, Michigan, after traveling in an RV with our two children for eight years while working in a worship concert and speaking ministry. This life change meant another new place and another opportunity to lean into God as my friend.

Wandering aimlessly through the home decor aisles at Target, I poured my heart out, “I’m lonely, Lord! All of this is new, and once again, I am unfamiliar with my surroundings. I don’t know anyone—I have no friends! Help me adjust, Lord…help me find my footing…help me find my home in you.”

I had become accustomed to that lonely feeling. It was normal to me. I was used to new places and new people and new situations. But now, we were putting roots down, and this was my local store. This was my home. These were my aisles. This is where I would buy my Tide and milk and lightbulbs. And it felt completely foreign. As I watched locals casually laughing, chit-chatting, and shopping together, it felt like another country to me. What should have been a fun Target-run turned into tears and white-knuckling the shopping cart handle.

But because God went shopping with me…

Suddenly I heard my name, “Marli, is that you?”

I turned to see one of only three people I had met in the entire city. This precious lady called my name, smiled, and showed excitement just to see me. We talked for a while, catching up on the kids, ministry, the move, and life in general. A few minutes later, pushing our carts in opposite directions, we waved and said goodbye.

She never knew. She didn’t have a clue. She still doesn’t.

That dear woman had no idea about the battle of loneliness that threatened to overtake me that day. She didn’t know I was crying out to God for relationship— for rescue. She wasn’t aware I needed to connect. See, we were designed for connection. We were built for relationships. God created us to be in fellowship with not only Him, but also with one another. When He made us, He intended that we would grow, learn, and live life with others as we deepen our knowledge and trust in Him.

I think that is what Women World Leaders and the Voice of Truth are all about. Connection. Fellowship. Relationships. God is not only honored and pleased, but He is also blessed as we come together to build His kingdom, walking side by side with sisters whom we may never meet this side of glory.

I am excited to experience the fellowship of like-minded women who wholeheartedly desire to walk out their calling with sincerity, intentionality, and passion as we live the gospel throughout the world. It is an honor to join you in this adventure of faith, fellowship, and friendship.

Marli Brown serves in a faith-based ministry with her husband of nearly 35 years. She is an author, musician, and missionary to the United States. They make their home in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and travel the country encouraging the body of Christ. Their mission is “to see the lost saved, and the saved made stronger.” You may visit their website at www.randyandmarli.com.

BY DR. JENNIE CERULLO AND DR. MARCIA BALL