THE AUTHOR

Debra J. Vaughn has been known as a vocalist and worship leader for many years. Her earliest singing experiences date back to her childhood, where music was a regular part of family life. Raised as the daughter of a Presbyterian pastor, Debra provided music at the churches where her father ministered. She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at the age of twelve and dedicated her music to Him at that same time.

After studying music in college, Debra sang with several Christian singing groups and provided background vocals on recordings for prominent Christian recording labels. The first album that featured Debra as a solo artist, Neal Joseph’s “Come Celebrate Jesus – A Christmas Celebration,” won the 1985 Dove Award for “Musical of the Year.” Just a short time later, Debra’s first husband left her for a homosexual lifestyle, causing her to wonder if her life of singing for the Lord was over.

Instead, as Debra learned she could have joy in the midst of trials, she was asked to share her story and music across the U.S. A few years later, soon after meeting her future husband Keith Vaughn, Debra was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and life as she knew it changed once again. Rather than shaking her faith, Debra’s trust in the love and goodness of God grew deeper and more certain as she saw Him use these challenges for good, in her life and as an encouragement to others.

One of the blessings she’s seen from life with MS is being forced to live at a slower pace, which has opened her eyes to things that would have escaped her notice if she still lived life in the fast lane Although Debra’s first love is leading worship for churches, Bible studies, conferences and retreats, writing comes in a close second. She’s found it’s possible for her two loves to be entwined and shares her stories as a way to prepare hearts to worship God. Having experienced the comfort of the Lord first hand, Debra exercises her calling to spread His love, comfort and joy to others.

Those who have heard Debra speak express appreciation for her candid and honest approach to sharing life in the trenches. Debra and her husband Keith have one son, Kole. Together Debra and Keith serve as advisors to single parents and blended families at their church in Fullerton, California. Debra spends her days gardening and writing about life she observes on their half acre property in Orange County, California. She leads worship music at her church and also leads music each summer for Royal Family Kids’ and Teen Leadership Camp, camps for children in foster care.

GARDEN LESSONS: Listening for God’s Voice is Debra J. Vaughn’s first book.