Today we’d like to introduce you to De’Shearer Gilbert
Hi De’Shearer, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In, But Not Of began unofficially in September 2021 when I led a women’s morning devotional group using Mark Batterson’s Draw the Circle book. What started with myself and three other women quickly grew to over 35 women gathering virtually each morning to go through the day’s devotional.
During one of the devotionals, John 15:19 stood out to me in a powerful way. Since I had already been writing devotionals, I considered writing one based on that passage. But I felt the Lord nudging me to think bigger, beyond just a devotional . Similar to how the small group had grown beyond my expectations. After praying and dreaming about it, the idea for a simple devotional evolved into a vision for a full women’s ministry focused on discipleship, biblical teaching, and building a supportive community through events and resources.
Since then, In, But Not Of has hosted four annual devotional groups with over 30 women each session, held two prayer breakfasts, launched a monthly Bible study, and officially became a nonprofit organization. What started as a small group has grown into a ministry equipping women to know God deeply and walk confidently in His truth.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Laugh out loud! The road has definitely not been easy!!! But I think that’s what makes the journey so meaningful. If it had been a smooth walk in the park, I don’t think I would appreciate it as much. Even in the hardest moments, I’ve never doubted that God called me to this. I’ve been able to connect with women in ways that I never would have if the start of this journey had been easy.
That’s the beautiful thing about following Christ you know, life can be tough, but Scripture reminds us that our momentary afflictions are producing for us an eternal glory (2 Corinthians 4:17). Even though the road has been rough, God has prepared and equipped me with the endurance to push through.
While In, But Not Of was forming, I was also deep in the process of earning my Master’s degree and working full-time as a middle school teacher, all three required my full attention. Balancing all three was challenging, but I’m grateful God gave me the strength to manage it all.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
In, But Not Of Women’s Ministry exists to empower women to live as true image bearers of Christ in today’s society. We provide a supportive community outside traditional church settings, encouraging women to step off the fence and stand firm in their God-given identity. Through discipleship, mentoring, biblical teaching, and educational resources, we help women experience the loving kindness of the Father and cultivate meaningful relationships with like-minded sisters in faith. Our mission is to inspire and equip women to navigate the world with purpose and conviction, embracing the truth that it is okay to be in this world but not of it
Through a blend of fellowship, learning, and spiritual guidance, we aim to create a nurturing environment where women can deepen their relationship with God and each other, fostering a community of empowered and enlightened individuals.
What I’m most proud of is the women who have recognized that they can’t walk this Christian journey alone and have partnered with In, But Not Of for discipleship and fellowship. It’s powerful to see women step into a deeper relationship with God and with each other.
In, But Not Of currently hosts a monthly Bible study for women in downtown Dallas. In the coming months, we’ll be launching a six-month discipleship program, providing biblical study resources, and hosting more fellowship events to build a strong community of faith.
I want readers to know that there is a place for everyone in the kingdom of God. No matter who you are, where you’ve been, or what you’ve done, know that God loves you, and He sent His Son for you.
What’s next?
I’m so excited about the launch of In, But Not Of’s discipleship program and biblical study resources. I know these will be incredibly helpful for women in their walk with God. Having someone like-minded to walk alongside you, talk with, and simply do life with makes the journey so much easier.
I’m also looking forward to seeing what God will do through IBNO. In the next year, we’ll be hosting our first conference, which feels like a huge milestone. The rest of 2025 will be a season of building and growth for the ministry, and I can’t wait to see how God moves.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ibnoministry.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inbutnotofministry
Image Credits
Sally Simpson
