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NextStep for Life

Transition for young adults.

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Uncategorized · September 19, 2017

House Manager, perspective

Being “live-in” staff comes with many facets. I know for myself and family we were

somewhat prepared for this part of our journey through our past experience in a

smaller program. We had no expectations and after living with the Next Step for Life

residents over the past year and a half, we have not been disappointed. As part of

the management team, there have been some very challenging bridges to cross with

the residents. God and His infallible Word has and always will be our “go to” for

guidance in all things relative to our ladies. He has been more than faithful to lead us

as we have been allowed to lead these very special ladies.

 

Through counsel, wisdom and prayer, it was determined we should lift the “age cap”

and begin to take in women of any age. God has shown up, as is His pattern in the

lives of His children. After living at Next Step with the first year residents, the

difference from then and today is palpable. It is felt as you walk into the doors and

through the rooms of the home.

 

It is not found in the Word of God that “orphans” have an age limit. We are described

as children without parents. The Word of God commands that we take care of the

orphans and widows (Psalm 10:17–18). When God gave the Law to Moses and the

Israelites, He gave instructions for how to treat the orphans and widows among

them—with harsh consequences promised if they failed in their responsibility

(Exodus 22:22–23).

 

Here at Next Step we have been privy to watching the orphaned become the

daughters of Christ they were intended to be. The ladies are no longer stigmatized

by the eyes and words of the world, but seen through the heart of Christ and in the

Love of God. The older ladies in the program have brought a deep sense of balance

and maturity that was a missing component in the program.

 

Staff and volunteers have been able to not only love young ladies, but also embrace

older one’s and welcome them to a life they never knew existed. Each resident has a

thirst and hunger to be accepted. At Next Step they are learning that real love does

exist and they are more than deserving of the love our good good Father has for

them. The evidence is the changes the ladies are making: embracing the course

work, not complaining about chores and tasks set before them, striving to serve

others in our service projects, applying themselves academically, and showing real

fruit in their life skills. As House Manager and Program Coordinator, there could not

be a more blessed place to call home and watch our “Father” do what He does best.

After all He is our Father to the fatherless.

 

– Niki Payne

Filed Under: Uncategorized

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About NextStep

Providing transitional living to adults with an intact family structure and encouraging growth by teaching spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical principles and practices for success.

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Next Step for Life
2300 W. Jackson St.
Cookeville, TN 38501

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