As I drive back from the conference this weekend there are more thoughts running through my mind than I can fit in a single post. So expect a few more of these in the week ahead.
The first couple of days were a great time of fellowship- meeting brothers and sisters in Christ from all over the world, running into old friends, and making new ones. That time gave me a glimpse of the magnitude of God’s kingdom.
But then the challenges started. The second full day was filled with classes covering a range of topics. By the end of the weekend, something like 215 lessons were taught or preached. I only wish I could’ve been at each and every one of them.
With the lessons come practical challenges and decisions to make. (the first decision I’m making is to dump this Blogger app and replace it with one that actually works) I attended classes on parenting, teaching, and community outreach. Then there were the evening worship and lessons; all of which challenged the status quo and called me higher.
So what am I going to do about it? I’m still reflecting, praying and reviewing notes but one change I know I need to make is in my intimacy with God. I admit, my prayer life stinks. As I sat through each of these classes on subjects I am deeply passionate about the Holy Spirit continued to convict me that “I do not have because I do not ask God.” (James 4:2) I want a teaching ministry. I want a community outreach ministry. Most of all I want my children to grow up righteously in the faith and for my wife and I to stand firm setting that example. But I don’t ask God for it. And Jesus promises, “you may ask me for anything in my name and I will do it.” (John 14:14)
I firmly believe that God will work out the desires in my heart to his Glory, not my timing or vision. That is, if I humbly surrender those desires to him.
“On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided.” (Genesis 22:14)