5 minutes with Kim ...

Where do you live? Tamworth, NSW. Yes, it’s the Country Music Capital, and if you can’t beat them, join them!

What do you love about living where you do? The clean air, slower pace of life, no more than 10 minutes to anywhere, and the sense of community.

Tell us about something the local church is doing that inspires you. We are trying to make real connections with our community. Some of our amazing members teach English as a second language, meet weekly for church on the frontyard in a mainly indigineous community, teach Scripture, run seminars on Dementia, Marriage and gender, and hold large scale events such a dinner with Mike Baird.

Tell us a little about yourself. I am fortunate to live close to my mum. I have two brothers. I am married to my soulmate. We have 2 children, age 20 and 17, and we love chasing them around Australia (literally) for their sporting endeavours. I have a financial planning business, in which I have the privilege of sharing the financial journey with my clients. My family is very important to me, and we also have a great circle of friends at our church and beyond. I try to give encouragement and share kindness.

What's your favourite bible passage & why? I have many, but Philippians 4:6-7 is one that challenges me often. I like my life to be organised, so sometimes worry about things I can’t control, and need to constantly remind myself to hand things over to God. It isn’t the world according to Kim! Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

How do you keep your eyes fixed on Jesus? I have about 10 minutes to read the Word for Today first thing in the morning, then I pray. I try to pray during the day, especially before I start work, and whenever people or situations come to mind. I’m also in a prayer triplet that meets weekly, and this has been an amazing place to laugh, cry and grow as Christians together. I make Church a priority, to be fed and encourage others.

What would you like the next generation of Christian women to know? God loves you and has a unique plan for you, so don’t compare yourself to anyone else. Take time out to just be with God without the noise of life – take a walk, turn off the TV and social media, look up and be thankful. Keep asking Him for guidance, wisdom and patience daily. Forgive others – it’s hard, but it’s also a gift for yourself. Treasure your wise, Christian friends, especially older women who have done more of life. My wise Nana and Mum always say: One day at a time……

What's one thing that you love about your local church? It is a great place to share life with all its joys and struggles, and challenges us to be Light and Salt to our town, family and friends.

What did you learn about God at a time in your life you found hard? He is faithful, and has a plan, even when you can’t see it. He has given me strength and provided others around me to keep going when I was at the end of my rope. It’s only when I look back, having passed through bad times, that I can see God’s plan and how that experience was important to strengthen my character. You don’t have to “feel” that God is there to trust Him. Many times, I don’t understand, but I can have faith that He loves me and will work things out.

What are you passionate about? My family. I love playing golf, and it is through this sport that God teaches me lots of patience! I love my work, and am so grateful that I can make a positive difference in a person’s financial future. I’m involved with our church Women’s ministry, particularly outreach and encouragement events – we have a superb group of women that make these events happen, and they constantly inspire me. I also love body-surfing, but that’s a bit hard to do in Tamworth!

What do you enjoy doing when you rest? I love reading, and our dog, Jasper the cavoodle, sits with me when I watch TV. Usually my rest time on holidays involves sport – golf, swimming, walking, surfing, indoor sky-diving. I’m quite happy in my own company, but I enjoy time with family and friends, too.