Last week on February 18th was the Choose Joy Women's Conference held at Calvary Chapel of the Raccoon River Valley (C.C.R.R.V.). Six ladies from our fellowship traveled to Panora, Iowa to attend the conference, and all of them only had great things to say about their experiences.
The group consensus on the conference was amazing, and all agreed that the main focus was that fellowship in itself produces joy. As David said in Psalm 133:1: "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for the brethren to dwell together in unity!"
Main Take-Aways
The main take-away from the conference was, "Don't be a Debbie Downer, but a Judy Joyful." What great examples! How often do we fall into the easy habit of complaining, but how much better to take the difficult road and choose to see the good. So much peace and joy from us and those around us. Debbie Downer, complains; Judy Joyful -- prays.
Another take-away is that how we see ourselves and our situations will determine our reaction and response. Those things change, but God's Word never changes. Praying, reading God's Word, and believing what it says about us will speak volumes and help us to choose joy regardless of our situation.
"If you're not dead, God's not done!" Was a quote from one of the older ladies in the group. What wise words. We are to be active, available, and joyful in the process while we still have breath in our lungs.
Pictures
Extra Content and Links
Here are some links and content from the conference.
Maxx Lucado: The Choice.
Thank You's
Thank you Deb Hayworth, for the time and effort you and your church put into this. Thank you, Erin Tyler, for leaning in on the Lord for strength in sharing your testimony. How encouraging to see the fruit of joy and peace when choosing to rely on Him! Thank you, Terri Johnson, for making the trip and giving us a new perspective when reading the living Word of God. And, thank you to Lynn Fernandez, Cindy Sanders, and Tina Culbertson in providing worship before each session. Everything was amazing!