Ep 143 // What If Your Most Fruitful Years Are Still Ahead? Walking with Giants in the Harvest Season of Life with Author Lori Melton

What if midlife isn’t the end of your calling—but the ripest part of your story?

In this heartfelt and hope-filled conversation, Megan Nilsen sits down with author and spiritual director Lori G. Melton, co-founder of The Sanctuary at Bear Creek Retreat Center. Together they talk about what it means to slow down, listen for God’s voice, and live fruitfully in every season—especially the “harvest years” of midlife.

Lori shares how her new book Journey with a Giant was born out of her own empty-nest transition and a longing to walk with God more intimately. She introduces the beautiful practice of learning from the “great cloud of witnesses”—spiritual giants who’ve gone before us—and how their faith can guide our steps today.

If you’re a woman wondering what’s next, craving deeper connection with God, or longing to see purpose in this new chapter, this conversation will remind you: the best fruit may still be growing in you.

Key Takeaways

• You’re Not Done Yet: Midlife isn’t a winding down; it’s a harvest season filled with wisdom and impact.
• Learn from the Great Cloud of Witnesses: Discover how studying faithful believers from history can strengthen your own walk with God.
• The Power of Spiritual Direction: Why sacred listening helps you discern God’s “new thing” in your life.
• Create Space for Stillness: How solitude and “Days Alone with God” can rekindle intimacy with the Father.
• Fruitfulness Requires Pace: Learning to walk—not run—with God brings more lasting impact than constant productivity.

Memorable Quotes

“It takes some slowness in your life to discern when God’s doing a new thing.”

“We’re in harvest season right now—God has spent decades building gifts in us, and now we get to give them away.”

“Be still and know that I am God is not a suggestion—it’s an invitation.”

“You don’t have to walk alone; the great cloud of witnesses is cheering you on.”

Reflection Question

What might it look like for you to slow down, listen for God’s voice, and see this next chapter as your most fruitful yet?

Stay connected with Megan:

• Website: meganbnilsen.com
• Social: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn
• Grab the Book: Untangled Faith+Companion Journal
• Free Gift: 30-Day Grace + Truth (Daily) Devotional
• Book a free discovery call to see if Kingdom Life Coaching could help you unlock your next right step!
• Looking for a holiday devotional? Check out Untangled Advent here!

Connect with Lori G. Melton

• Website: lorigmelton.com
• Book: Journey with a Giant – Learn how to walk with the faithful witnesses who’ve gone before you
• Podcast: The Sanctuary Stirrings (featuring the Journey with a Giant series)
• Facebook: Lori G. Melton