The Next Small Yes: Gritty Grace Stories (Lilias Trotter)

What do you do when a door closes right as something good is finally beginning to grow? When the breakthrough you prayed for feels fragile, or the next step is anything but obvious. In today's episode, we step into a hard, holy moment from the life of Lilias Trotter. A woman who followed Jesus across continents, cultures, and countless closed doors. Not with grand strategies or dramatic pivots, but with quiet courage and one small yes at a time. This episode is part of an occasional series where I share a snapshot from the life of a faithful follower of Jesus. Not because their lives were easy or impressive by worldly standards, but because they show us what faithfulness really looks like in the long middle. Much of today's story comes from the beautiful biography A Passion for the Impossible by Miriam Rockness. In this episode, we explore: Why faithfulness is often lived out in waiting, disappointment, and daily obedience What to do when a good door closes and you are left without a clear plan How Lilias learned to pray, pivot, and persevere without rushing past grief Why small, creative acts of obedience can carry the gospel farther than we expect How God often works through what is humbler, simpler, and more accessible than our original plans   💡Today's Big Idea: Faithfulness lives in the next small yes. ⚡️Today's Small Step:  Ask, "Lord, what's one small way forward today?"   **** LINKS + RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE: Book: A Passion for the Impossible by Miriam Rockness 🌿The Pace of Grace Community 🌿 Slow down. Breathe deep. Grow in grace. Join a community of like-minded believers who are committed to living and working at God's pace—without the hustle, hurry, or overwhelm. Inside, you'll find encouragement, practical tools, and a sacred space to pause, reflect, and realign with what matters most. ✨ Monthly live gatherings ✨ Prayer, support, and connection ✨ Simple practices to nurture your soul No long-term commitment—just a gentle invitation to step into a rhythm of grace. Join today for only $10/month! [www.paceofgrace.com/community]   👍 Follow, rate, and review The Pace of Grace Podcast on Apple or Spotify   **** LET'S CONNECT: Find me on Facebook  @kavery Find me on Instagram @CoachKimAvery