Lucinda Secrest McDowell

“Helping You Choose a Life of Serenity & Strength”

You probably know me, even if we haven’t met. I’m that girl who always wanted to get it right – for God, my family, my work. So, I put my whole heart and soul into everything… with a variety of results.

When the enemy’s whispers of “not enough” were louder than God’s endearing “beloved,” I found myself at the end of myself. You too?

Grace changed all that — transforming me from striving to soul strong. In my new life story, I depend on mercy and grace in order to offer encouraging words to other hungry souls while helping you choose a life of serenity & strength.

Essential companions on my journey – spiritual habits of prayer, Bible study, journaling, silence and worship – deepen my relationship with God and others; empowering me to courageously face the challenges of a precarious culture.

My purpose in life – to glorify God – remains firm, but the actual ‘marching orders’ are constantly unfolding in new scenarios and new seasons. I am so utterly grateful for every moment God allows me to live authentically and love extravagantly!

Lucinda Secrest McDowell, M.T.S., is a storyteller and seasoned mentor who engages both heart and mind while “Helping You Choose a Life of Serenity & Strength.” A graduate of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and Furman University, McDowell is the author of 15 books and contributing author to 30+ books. Her award-winning books include new releases Life-Giving Choices (2019) and Soul Strong (2020), as well as Dwelling Places, Ordinary Graces, Refresh, and Live These Words. Lucinda, a member of the Redbud Writers Guild and AWSA, received Mt. Hermon “Writer of the Year” award and guest blogs for The Write Conversation, Blue Ridge Christian Writers Blog and (in)courage. Whether co-directing “reNEW ~ retreat for New England Writing & Speaking,” pouring into young mamas, or leading a restorative day of prayer, she is energized by investing in people of all ages. Lucinda’s favorites include creative words, tea parties, good books, laughing friends, ancient prayers, country music, cozy quilts, musical theatre, and especially her family scattered around the world doing amazing things. Known for her ability to convey deep truth in practical and winsome ways, she writes from “Sunnyside” cottage in New England and blogs regularly at http://www.EncouragingWords.net/

My mission is to glorify God and live in His grace and freedom, and through the power of the Holy Spirit to use my gifts to communicate God’s faithfulness, extend His grace, and encourage others to trust Him fully.

“Every word You give me is a miracle word – how could I help but obey? Break open Your words, let the light shine out, let ordinary people see the meaning.” Psalm 119.129-130 MSG