Women’s Conference | IF:Gathering

Hi sweet friends! I hope everyone had a great weekend! I always want to write about my faith more on this blog, and I’m so excited because this past weekend gave me the perfect opportunity to do just that.

On Friday, my sister-in-law, Aubrey and I drove to Austin, Texas to attend IF:Gathering with my mother-in-law, Diann and sister-in-law, Catherine. IF:Gathering is a two-day gathering of thousands of women seeking to remember the purpose of following God and why making disciples matters.

This was my first time attending IF:Gathering, so I wasn’t totally sure what to expect. Over the course of the weekend, we heard quite a few amazing ladies speak, but one of my personal favorites was Jo Saxton.

Jo talked about how life “in the middle” is hard. By “the middle,” she basically meant any season of waiting that you’re in, whether that’s waiting for a husband, a new job, kids, ect. Maybe I’m the only one that relates, but I feel like I’m almost always in the middle. (Clearly, I have a problem with contentment!)

I won’t explain the whole message, but if you’re in any season of life that is starting to feel mundane, here are three things Paul reminded Timothy while he was “in the middle” that we can also apply to our lives:

1. Paul reminds Timothy of his faith. (2 Timothy 1: 5) Practically for us, that means remembering that the beginning of your faith started long before this season of waiting, so don’t let any disappointments start to define you.
2. Paul reminds Timothy to remember who empowers him. (v. 7) God didn’t give us a spirit of fear. Maybe for you that looks like comparison, jealousy, or perfectionism. I know it does for me. Remember that you ARE enough and God gave you the spirit of power and love.
3. Paul reminds Timothy to live a holy life in response to what Jesus has done for us. (v. 9-10) For us, remember that God has a purpose and plan already written for your life and He sees your life beyond “the middle.” So during all seasons, live your life like you know that you were saved and remember that God isn’t done with you.

I also picked up a few studies that I wanted to share with you in case you’re looking for some new ways to draw closer to God:

1. Rooted In The Word– I’m always searching for better ways to study my bible, and this book is the perfect tool for that. Even though I’ve been reading my bible for years, I’m so excited to go through a study that literally helps you read and apply God’s word more affectively.

2. Enjoying Jesus– I’ll be the first to admit that one of my weaknesses is consistency with spiritual disciplines. This 7 week study takes you through 12 experiences (such as prayer, confession, and meditation) that help you draw closer to Christ.

Let me know if you get any of these studies because I’d love to talk about what you learn from them!! I’d also love to know if you’re studying anything in particular that I should know about! Okay that’s all! Have a great day!

Love, Amy Cotton

I’m linking up with Ducks ‘N A Row, HoHo Runs, B Loved Boston, My Glittery Heart, Inspire Me Monday, By Lauren M, More Pieces of Me