Episode 155: Faith, flight and surrender; trusting God when doors close with Jessalyn Bruce

Jessalyn Bruce is here to share her powerful testimony! She begins by taking us back to her childhood in California, where her faith journey first took root. As the oldest of eight children, Jessalyn’s family became involved in the Institute for Basic Life Principles (IBLP), led by Bill Gothard, when she was just nine years old. Growing up in such a strict, legalistic environment was challenging, especially as a young Christian trying to understand her faith. Through a series of pivotal moments, God began to unravel these beliefs, leading Jessalyn to a deeper understanding of His grace. As she entered high school, Jessalyn felt a strong calling toward missions, deeply inspired by the 1956 Christian martyrs in Ecuador, a story brought to life in the movie End of the Spear. Determined to follow this calling, she pursued missions training at Bible college, where she met her future husband, Davy—though their relationship wouldn’t begin until they reconnected after graduation. Jessalyn shares relatable experiences of navigating faith, relationships, and ministry as a young adult, offering insight and encouragement along the way. Together, she and Davy pursued mission aviation, undergoing years of training while moving between California, Alaska, and Texas. Throughout their journey, they witnessed God’s provision in incredible ways as they prepared for life on the mission field as a young family. However, in 2023, unexpected doors began to close, and by early 2024, after an emotional meeting with their sending church, their mission field journey came to an end. Though it was heartbreaking, Jessalyn and Davy have found peace in Arizona, trusting that God is still leading them forward. Her testimony is a powerful reminder that God uses every season—especially the hard ones—to shape us. Nothing is ever wasted when we walk with Him. You’ll be encouraged and inspired as Jessalyn shares her story of faith, surrender, and God’s unwavering faithfulness!

"Let God orient you to Himself and then you will be oriented to His will. The servant does not tell the Master what kind of assignment he needs. The servant waits on his Master for the assignment. As you obey Him, God will prepare you for the assignment that is just right for you." -Henry T. Blackaby & Avery T. Willis Jr.

"Present your gifts, vocations and talents to the Lord. Press into God. Stay there until you long to go out in His Name. Remain there and nurture the longing to see the earth bathed with His praise. Only then will you be able to trust your heart if you hear God say, 'stay.' Only those who long to broadcast His glory to the nations have the right to stay." -Floyd McClung

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Want to share your story on The Stories Collective podcast in 2025? Email sarah@dscchurch.com

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