God's revelation for the ministry that has become Peniel Pillows originated with a single act of giving. Rushan Smyth, a wife, homemaker and mother of two boys, decided one spring that she would make a unique gift for a friend's daughter who was graduating from school.

Knowing that the desired gift was an elegant, richly decorated, pillow, she set about the task of selecting fabric, fringe and other materials for the project. There was only one problem: she knew nothing about sewing! This is how she tells her story: "I wanted my gift to be special. I wanted Laura Beth to always know that I had cared enough about her to create something unique and personal. And I wanted her to think about me - and the fact that I had to learn "how" to create her gift - each time she looked at her pillow.""Then the Lord began speaking to my heart. While my gift to this young friend would be a precious reminder of me, how much better would it be if people could receive gifts that reminded them of the Father? If every time they looked at their pillow, they thought about God and His love for them? It was in that moment that I understood He had a plan and purpose for me and for what has become known as Peniel Pillows. In that moment I began to realize something important. This is not about 'sewing.' It's about 'sowing.'"

It was through that revelation that Peniel Pillows would come to be born. In the beginning, as friends and neighbors would express growing interest and want to know more, these unique, hand-sewn, pillows would be individually designed, crafted and delivered. One by one. Each pillow would be accompanied, as is still the case today, by a descriptive card noting the specially selected scripture passage and explaining the symbolism on which each pillow's design was based.

As interest has continued to grow, Peniel Pillows, Inc., has expanded both its product line and its markets. Today, Rushan serves as president of the company where she remains actively involved in design and new product development. The company is engaged in ongoing sales and marketing efforts throughout the Southeast and it has recently begun moving into new markets which are outside that area. Peniel Pillows makes regular appearances at the major merchandise marts.