By: Ashley Rae Morton
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Hebrews 10:24-25 NIV
In the summer of 2023, I relocated back to Tampa, and a good friend suggested I attend a Grace Family Church service with her. I’ll admit this was my first time watching a pastor on a big screen, but something in me said to give it a chance. There was a recurring emphasis on the belief that “we’re not meant to do life alone." At the time, they were advertising for groups, and the Beautiful women's ministry caught my attention. I had never participated in a church group like this, but I was tired of doing life alone, and my heart desired change.
So we joined. At first, I was nervous because I did not feel equipped to engage in biblical conversations. I felt unworthy because of what I was carrying, but I showed up every Monday evening. As we continued engaging in honest and heartfelt conversations, I realized that these women were just like me. Some knew scripture deeply, others were lifelong church members, but at the heart of it, we were all seeking connection through God’s word. As I sat at this table, I never felt judged or disrespected, only love and acceptance.
A couple of semesters had passed when some women at the table suggested I consider leading. While I did feel supported, I definitely was not ready. I agreed to become a co-leader— baby steps. In that role, I learned the importance of being present despite my fears. Just show up. I learned that God doesn’t call us to be perfect or prepared, but he equips us to carry out his will. He knows what he has made us capable of, even if we don’t see it. In January 2025, I received a text asking me, “Where does the Lord have you?” My response was simple: to serve where I was needed.
God had called me to be a leader. I asked Him to use me if he saw fit. I prayed for the women who sat at my table way before I had ever seen their faces. I prayed that we would form a genuine bond, that each woman would feel loved, seen, valued, and welcomed. I prayed for insecurities to be broken and for our laughter to be louder than our struggles.
As the semester ended, I realized God had answered every prayer. The women at table #6 came from all walks of life: mothers, women returning to church, and those bravely stepping outside of their comfort zones. God had chosen to seat us together. In that space, I experienced abundant kindness, encouragement, and God’s intention. We shared laughter, tears, and insight, and I will forever be grateful. My experience reminded me that I’m not alone. We were never meant to walk this journey in isolation, but to gather, to encourage one another, and to be strengthened by shared faith. Despite our imperfections, we are worthy. In Beautiful, I found friendships rooted in the love of God, and I was gently reminded that His love is ever-present.
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