Welcome to ‘WHILE I PONDER with Karlene.’

Hi, friend!

Sharing words is my way of encouraging others. It’s in the beautiful and difficult of life that these stories are forged.

From a young age, I’ve been a ponder-er, wishful thinker, and dreamer. In this space, I strive to connect my pondering with God’s Word and His love for us.

Today, I’m a wife, mom, Gigi, friend, author, blogger, minister, and servant of God. Most days, you can find me writing at the computer, or spending time with my adorably wild grandsons.

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Free Subscribers hear from me in The Free Newsletter about once a month! Also, you can upgrade to Paid Subscriber, and receive additional content and resources, like…

  • “Deeper Dive” essays, exploring Scripture and application (paid subscribers only)

  • Occasional “Q&A Chat Sessions” here on Substack (paid subscribers only + full archive of community discussions)

  • “The Fast 5” of what I’m reading and loving with resource links + more candid heart-pondering from me (paid subscribers only)

  • “This Joy is Yours” free e-course (paid subscribers only)

  • Access to the full archives of essays*

Remember, free subscribers will always receive The Free Newsletter. If you’ve not subscribed, here’s the link.

Why offer a paid subscription?

If you’re wondering why I’d invite readers to pay, I offer this explanation.

First, paid subscriptions aren’t meant to create a barrier, but a way to support my work. It’s also a way to create a quieter space in the digital world for more candid writing—a place where you can feel safe, as well.

What I’m doing for the paid subscribers is more than I’ve ever done before. The occasional Q & A Chat Sessions are something different, and I’m excited to see how God uses them. Deeper Dive is an opportunity for more in-depth teaching of Scripture and devotional content.

I’ve been blogging for over a decade. Over the years, I’ve tried most of the things—podcasting, Zoom-led Bible studies, Facebook Groups, and more. Here’s what I now know. Writing the words God gives me is what I love doing, and this seems to resonate with others.

The truth is, this work of writing is a ministry—serving readers with words of encouragement, inspiration, and life-changing biblical insight.

If you find yourself interested in upgrading to a paid subscription, perhaps consider the cost as an offering to support the ministry that readers like yourself receive here.


The upgrade to While I Ponder with Karlene Paid Subscription is just $5/month USD ($30/annual USD—a bargain).

And, if you decide not to upgrade, I’ll gladly continue sending The Free Newsletter to your email. You are always welcome here!

To those who are in a season of financial hardship, and unable to work the cost into the monthly budget, I do not want this to be a hindrance. Send me a message at whileiponderkarlene@substack.com. We’ll find a way to sort it out.


*To explain this statement: “…paid subscribers will receive access to the full archives.”

  • Paid-only posts are hidden behind a paywall and available to paid subscribers only.

  • Free subscribers have access to the Free Newsletter + any free additional content for one month. (After one month, most posts are hidden behind the paywall.)

Most of my pre-existing posts (written before launching the paid subscription) are still available to read in the Archives to ALL subscribers.

"Welcome" Post Edition


You’ll also find me here » INSTAGRAMPINTEREST

On ministry, work, education…

Born the daughter of a preacher, I literally grew up on the front row of the church. For most of my adult life, I've worked as an administrative assistant in the Christian nonprofit arena. I’ve served the Church at the local level, district, international, and university. For the past decade, I've served on the board of trustees and as a virtual assistant for a Christian nonprofit. I hold a Master of Ministry from Southwestern Christian University.

On faith and purpose…

I believe…my primary purpose is to bring glory to God. Some days I fall short but, by God's grace, I can get up tomorrow and try again.
I believe…the Bible is the Word of God, the full and complete revelation of the plan and history of redemption for mankind.
I believe…we are meant to enjoy life and in doing so, we demonstrate the joy and freedom we have as children of God.
To find out more about the tech for this newsletter, visit Substack.com.

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'While I Ponder with Karlene' is a publication supported by readers. To receive posts and support my work, become a free or paid subscriber. Contending for the faith, inspiring hope, living well.

People

Contending for the faith. Inspiring hope. Living well. | Karlene has been blogging and writing for over a decade. Consider subscribing to ‘While I Ponder with Karlene’, a reader-supported publication.