Linda J. Ivey Ministries
Minister Claudia Kelley
Chapter Title: My Walk Will Be A Testimony
Signature Scripture:
Psalms 23
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul:
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
Church Membership: Voice of Hope Deliverance Church, Philadelphia, PA
Contact Information: Lindajiveyministries.com
Ministry Focus: Nursing Home & Hospice Ministry
Minister Kelley’s Background: Born and raised in Philadelphia and serving God since she was a young girl, also active in nursing home & hospice ministry now both she and her daughter are in ministry.
Minister Kelley’s Reflections: When I look back I have some advice I would give to other women who are new to ministry; advice to encourage them in their service to God. I would love to tell people of God to stay with the Lord and encourage them to keep serving Him no matter your circumstances. I would tell them to stay in ministry until God changes them because He’s so faithful and loves them so much. I would let them know they couldn’t begin to imagine the future God has for His servants. 1 Corinthians 2 states it best “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.”
Minister Kelley’s Testimony: I pray that my walk will be a testimony for other women in ministry; especially for my daughter who is also in ministry.
Minister Kelley’s Challenges: I loved the Lord and wanted to serve Him, but I had to watch people’s comments because they were so hurtful, I didn’t move as quickly as I should have moved. I did more reading, studying and attended Bible school, and learned the scriptures. It took me a few years to be able to recognize all the books in the Bible and a little longer for me to understand their spiritual meaning. Pastor Pratt, who was sweet and loving, had faith in me and was encouraging.
Minister Kelley’s Observations: In addition to your relationship with God, there are five other important qualities needed for ministry. Obedience is important and is better than sacrifice. The Bible says prayer is very important because it changes things. God wants us to have a praying spirit as in 1 Thessalonians 5, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” We have to be loving towards everyone even those who would willfully misuse us because God will make our enemies our footstools. We are to share and give our time and talents to help and encourage others.
Minister Kelley’s Most Significant Accomplishment: I have had the privilege of doing ministry with some amazing Women of God: Pastors Sharon Lester, Linda Pratt, and Carolyn Coleman. We have visited other churches to fellowship and share God’s Word. I partner with Mother Mungan when we visit the sick and shut-in. I’ve also been blessed to work around some loving and supportive Men of God. The ministers at my church are real people of God and go out of their way to help me.