Saturday, March 14, 2009

Cornerstone's Women's Retreat

Today was a blessing, speaking for myself but I believe, for many of the ladies who attend Cornerstone Bible Church. Every year the women have a retreat headed up by wonderful ladies from church. In years past the ladies would choose a location, like a lodge or hotel, and there would be a minimal charge to use the facilities. It would include over night and food accommodations – one year we had an opportunity to stay at Mario’s International Spa and Hotel. This year to keep the costs down, free to all who’d like to attend, was held at Agape Christian School. Friday evening was at one of the ladies homes with option to stay the night. Saturday we resumed at the school with Continental breakfast and lunch. There was a sign-up sheet at church for the food and all were generous for there was enough to feed and army- or should I say Christian soldiers. Ha We had teachings from three different ladies and the topic “Living by Faith, Not Fear” fear is something I’m sure everyone can identify with. There were also testimonials from some incredibly strong women of faith (I know they might not agree) but what an inspiration. A lot of us, if not all, go through things and much of it isn’t great - especially if you’re the one going through it. We learned about “healthy” forms of fear and of course the fear that can harm your walk, keeping you from moving forward and from being the person you were ultimately meant to be. And, most importantly what God has to say about it, who He is and where our help lies. There’s so much out there that can cause a person to fear anywhere from the economic problems that face this nation, how about violence or fear for a lost loved one, even fear you may place there by wrong beliefs. Some of the questions asked really cause a lot of us to think. Like what are some fears you are personally facing? Or what fears are most common among women? When is fear needed? When fear rules, where are my thoughts? And - Do you know who you are in Christ? It was much to cover over a short period of time and much to consider. It is always wonderful to fellowship with other believers. You are encouraged and recharged. Maybe God is saying something to you? Here are some of the scriptures we went over if you’d like to look them up. Psalms 91, Exodus 25:17-22 (protection, covering), Ephesians 6:16 (shield), 1Peter 5:8, Rev.12:9, Romans 16:20, Matthew 7:13-14, John10:10, Hebrews 11:1-6, 12:2 (fixing our eyes on Him), John 14:2-3, II Tim.1:7 (what God has not given us), John 14: 12-14, Phil 4:6 (the importance of prayer), John 14 (just read the whole chapter >>>AWESOME! Psalms 86:11, Psalm 19:9 (when fear is needed), Col. 1:15-22, 23, Ephesians 1:2-6, John 15 (abiding in Christ), Matthew 6:31, Phil 4:6-9 (be anxious for nothing), Romans 12:22, James 2:14-26 (faith in action) Hebrews 11:6 (without faith it’s impossible to please God) If you ever have the opportunity to go to a Women’s retreat I highly suggest you do so. It will truly be a blessing to you. As far as anyone is concerned - I really don't think anyone missed going to a Lodge or Hotel this weekend.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Sometimes the simpler way is much more of a blessing than the extravagant way. At least I have found that to be true many times. I'm glad you were blessed and refreshed! :-)