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Walking in Purpose Through Faith and Fire

Walking in Purpose Through Faith and Fire

Last updated on: May 4, 2025 at 6:48 am by Dr. Teresa A. Smith, AKA Dr. TAS

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Walking in Purpose Through Faith and Fire 2025-05-04T06:48:58-04:00 Dr. Teresa A. Smith, AKA Dr. TAS

LOGO Patheos Explore the world's faith through different perspectives on religion and spirituality! Patheos has the views of the prevalent religions and spiritualities of the world.

Everyone wonders at some point, Am I really walking in my purpose? That answer doesn’t always show up in big moments. Often, it comes through small nudges, unexpected conversations, and time spent leaning into faith. For Dr. Velma Bagby, walking in purpose through faith and fire didn’t happen overnight. Her journey began after retirement, with a question from her daughters and a heart determined to hear from God. Her story offers hope for women who feel called to more but need clarity and confidence to take the next step.

Dr. Velma Bagby is standing in blue suit

Credit: Dr. Velma Bagby

A Question That Sparked Something Bigger

Dr. Bagby’s path took a turn when her daughters asked, “Mom, why are men so slow?” Instead of answering off the cuff, she turned to the Bible to find God’s truth about dating and relationships. She set aside self-help books and went straight to Scripture.

What started as a personal search soon became a book. But even before finishing the manuscript, she spoke at a few churches and noticed people were listening. Young adults recorded her talks. Older adults asked where they could get the book.

That’s when she realized this wasn’t just a writing project. This was a purpose.

Proverbs 16:3 NIV reminds us, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” That’s exactly what was happening.

Helping Women Date With Purpose

Dr. Bagby’s first book wasn’t just about dating, it was a call to action. She encouraged single women to “date with intention” and “date for marriage.” She taught that marriage isn’t just a personal desire but something God designed as a powerful, covenant relationship.

Women were drawn to the idea that preparation matters. That healing and self-work should come before pursuing a partner. Her message gave women both tools and confidence to shift how they approached relationships with faith, clarity, and grace.

When Fiction Becomes Ministry

Once her first book found success, Dr. Bagby felt God nudging her to do something different. She began writing fiction to teach biblical truths.

Just like Jesus used parables to help people understand deep spiritual concepts, Dr. Bagby used stories to make faith-based dating advice more relatable.

Mark 4:34 NIV says, “He did not say anything to them without using a parable.” Through fiction, she could connect with readers’ hearts while still offering wisdom rooted in Scripture.

The Doubts Were Real, But So Was the Calling

At first, stepping into the Christian book space felt intimidating. Dr. Bagby saw thousands of books already written on the topic. She wondered, What makes mine different? Will anyone notice?

Then God sent her the encouragement she needed. A speaker in a writers’ group said, “This is not a competition. No one can say it like you. There’s an audience waiting for your voice.”

That moment was freeing. Romans 11:29 AMP reminds us, “For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.” Her calling was valid, and her words were needed.

Staying Steady in a World That’s Not

The world feels chaotic. But through all the noise, Dr. Bagby stays grounded through faith. Her spiritual practice isn’t just something she does; it’s the anchor that holds her together.

She leans on Psalm 46:1 KJV: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Whether she’s making a big decision or simply facing a busy week, she knows where to turn for peace and clarity.

A Tough Season and a Lesson Learned

After publishing her first book, Dr. Bagby faced a year of back-to-back health issues. She didn’t understand why. She thought she was doing what God had asked. But then came a realization: this was the refiner’s fire.

Much like a craftsman shaping knives with fire, water, and pressure, God was shaping her. The difficult year wasn’t wasted it prepared her for what came next. That season birthed another book, A Place Called Down – Why Christians Suffer.

Sometimes the fire makes us ready for the shelf. Other times, it simply makes us stronger for the assignment ahead.

Dr. Velma Bagby in beige suit speaking

Credit: Dr. Velma Bagby

Listening for God’s Voice in the Details

Dr. Bagby doesn’t take decisions lightly. Whether it’s starting a new project or adjusting her schedule, she prays for direction. Proverbs 3:6 KJV says, “In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.”

She’s learned to invite God into everything even the small stuff. That obedience has brought peace, protection, and surprising new opportunities. Her husband also helps keep her grounded, often noticing when she needs a break before she does.

Everyday Joys That Keep Her Fueled

When Dr. Bagby isn’t writing, speaking, or coaching, she’s enjoying time with her husband. Whether it’s a quick Starbucks date or a movie night on the couch, she values moments that refresh her soul.

Sometimes, the best inspiration comes from simply stepping away and breathing in life’s quiet joys.

Helping Women Know Their Worth

One of Dr. Bagby’s biggest passions is helping women see themselves through God’s eyes. She reminds them:

You are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14 NIV)
You are worth far more than rubies (Proverbs 31:10 NIV)
You are deeply loved (John 3:16 NIV)

Knowing this changes everything. When women embrace their worth in Christ, they no longer chase validation; they walk confidently in their identity.

The Power of Pressing Pause

Years ago, God gave Dr. Bagby a vision of a hamster on a wheel. It was His way of saying, “Don’t live like this.” Since then, she’s been intentional about slowing down, listening, and resting. She calls it “practicing the pause.”

For anyone feeling stretched thin, that simple act can be life-changing.

How to Stay Connected

Dr. Bagby loves building community. Readers can stay connected through her website at drvelmabagby.com, https://linktr.ee/drvelma, or by following her on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, Threads, and LinkedIn. She also shares encouragement and updates through her podcast.

There’s Purpose in Your Process

Dr. Bagby’s journey proves that walking in purpose through faith and fire is possible, especially when women trust God, embrace their voice, and say yes to the assignment.

Her encouragement is simple but powerful: God doesn’t need you to be perfect. He needs you to be available.

Your voice matters. Your story is valid. And your purpose? It’s still unfolding, one faithful step at a time.

If you liked this article, leave your comments below.

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About Dr. Teresa A. Smith, aka Dr. TAS

Dr. Teresa A. Smith (Dr. TAS) is a professor, best-selling author, certified counselor, and empowerment speaker whose mission is to help people heal, grow, and thrive through faith. As host of Talk With TAS and Transform With TAS, she shares unfiltered conversations, soul-nourishing strategies, and practical tools for overcoming adversity, burnout, and life transitions. She is also a Contributing Writer for Conversations Magazine, where she shares stories of healing, resilience, and purpose. Through her books, shows, writing, and speaking, Dr. TAS empowers individuals and communities to rise strong and live boldly in their God-given purpose. You can read more about the author here.

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