Hi, ladies!
We are a little more than halfway through 2020 and we are still here! Friends, that right there is something to celebrate.
When I look back over the past seven months, I am in awe of all that has taken place in my life.
In January, I did something I have never done before and lead a small retreat on Intimacy with God. I was honored to go on a life-changing mission trip to Myanmar back in February. In April, I ventured out into new territory and recorded a Bible study video series, and I am working on my second one. Earlier this month, I walked into the ER with a 2.2 hemoglobin count. That visit came with a short hospital stay and lots of wonder and marvel from every doctor and nurse who attended to me. I am a walking miracle - a fact no one can refute. A week later, battling a severe reaction to the blood transfusion was how I spent that weekend. That was all over just in time for my birthday, and a few blissful days with friends on a quiet lake far away from the busyness of life.
This has been a year, but I don't lament any of it. Even when my body felt like it was revolting, my God was near. The prayers of friends and faithful intercessors were efficient weapons for my healing. I am grateful.
And now, here we are the week before our first major women's event of the year. Already this morning, I have been working on a couple of surprises we have in store for our attendees. However, as much as I love giving and surprises, those are not what moves my heart most. It's being together and watching the Lord touch this one, and that one - seeing him minister and form heart connections between sisters, and experiencing his pleasure over us as we press in together. Now that is why I do this! That is what motivates me to go all out. That is why I attend to even the smallest of details and try to create a space where women feel considered and cared for, so that worship and surrender become effortless acts of obedience. Our God is extravagant in his love. Therefore, he deserves nothing less. Yet, I realize that sometimes we need a little help getting there.
Ladies, whether it is Promises or one of our upcoming Bible studies, my prayer is that you will recognize the power of assembling together with other believers, whether in person or online. We need each other. We need the strength and encouragement that fellowshipping brings.
Just one quick story and I will be done.
I have a dear powerhouse of a friend that I was able to spend some one on one time with last summer. We were at her vacation home the week before I was supposed to speak at an event. One morning, I went into her bedroom to see if she was up. She was sitting on her bed doing what I had been doing for the past hour - personally inviting friends to attend this event. We started praying for those who would come and for the message the Lord had given me. I noticed while I was praying that my fervor was increasing. The more expression my friend gave to her prayers, the more I gave to mine. I realized in that moment that she makes me a better pray-er!
Have you found that to be true for you? When you get around someone who excels in a spiritual gift or in their fervor for the Lord, it increases your own as well?
Sisters, that is how the Kingdom of God works. It is within you as a Christ follower, but sometimes it just needs stirring up.
I was stirred up in my intercession as my friend boldly professed hers.
The Spirit that is within her, bore witness to the Spirit that is within me (Romans 8:16) and I was spurred on to pray more passionately (Hebrews 10:24).
May we never come to the place where we forsake the need for fellowship, in any form - physically or virtually (but please opt for physical whenever you can). It is a priceless gift from the Father meant to bless us. Receive it as such because right now, we need life-giving connection.
Longing to see you flourish,
Cheryl
