Spark Spotlight Writer: Author and Speaker Debbie Presnell
After thirty years of teaching in higher education, Debbie Presnell is now a Christian author, national speaker and Bible study teacher. Her passion is to teach women how to shine, and shine BRIGHT. Debbie helps teenage girls and women embrace their identity in Christ and discover their purpose in life. She is the founder and director of Shine Camp, a summer camp for teenage girls with the mission to empower and equip middle and high school girls with biblical tools and principles.
Debbie has authored four books including Shine! Radiating the Love of God — A Bible Study Designed for Young Women in Middle School and High School, Shining Through the Psalms — A 150 — Day Devotional Journey, Shine On! 30 Biblical Principles for Radiant Living, and Shining Through James — Living the Journey that Doesn’t Make Sense. She is also the United States spokesperson for Mukti Mission in India where she partners with Mukti Mission US to bring hope, healing, and life to women and children of India.
How did you become interested in writing?
I always loved writing, especially devotions. When my son was in kindergarten, I started having women over and began doing bible studies. I never planned to publish anything. I just loved it so much. I didn’t actually write my first Bible study until my daughters went to high school.
What initially caused you to pursue a path in women’s ministry and writing devotionals?
I loved studying God’s word. I had been close to God all my life, so it was only natural for me to call out when I needed help, or direction, or wisdom. When my daughter suggested I host a bible study every Friday night on friendships and accountability, I couldn’t find a Bible study, so I wrote my own. The girls attended throughout the entire summer, and the Bible study has been going on for 15 years years straight. It is now Shine Camp.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
I don’t think I can name just one– there are so many! My faithful friends inspire me. My mom showed me godly strength and the power of prayer. Certain authors and speakers encourage me. But honestly, God has been so faithful to me, that I just want to be faithful back! His love for me inspires me to share this love with others.
What is most important to you in your writing and your ministry?
This is such a great question because the answer keeps my mission and God’s plan for me at the forefront: I want my words, whether written or spoken, and my actions to point others to God, and cause them to desire a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. He is the Giver of hope, peace, and joy and the decision to follow Him is a life-changer.
What’s most rewarding about what you do?
Encouraging or inspiring women of all ages is a thrill! I want every woman to know they are beautiful, important, worthy, and that God has incredible plans for them! I am so honored that God would use me in this capacity. The work is hard, but the payoff is priceless.
SHINE On!
Debbie Presnell
WEBSITE debbiepresnell.com/
DEBBIE’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL www.youtube.com/channel/UCvp6oHcd5HqJNjpHXXv-cvQ
FACEBOOK DEVOTION PAGE www.facebook.com/ShineEveryDayWithDebbie
MUKTI MISSION
You can find Debbie’s books on Amazon.com.