we were HERE!

My mom and I attended her last conference three years ago and were so excited to hear Joyce Meyer was coming back to town! The conference itself was entirely FREE; seating was available on a "first come" basis so we decided to reserve a room and make a weekend of it. Mom and I scored some amazing seats - the photo below shows just how close we were to the stage at the Xcel Energy Center.

For those of you unfamiliar with Joyce Meyer, you can find her television schedule or view previous broadcasts online at her website. Click HERE for the link!

I first learned about Joyce six years ago. My mom had been watching her on television and was talking more and more about the Bible - I honestly thought she was going nuts! I began started secretly watching the show myself to see what my Mom was getting herself into. I was shocked to hear how practical and relevant the Bible actually was, and found myself looking forward to her teachings. It ignited a passion in me to learn more and I spent the next couple of years asking questions, digging, and searching for answers. Check it out, you might find yourself surprised!

Anyways, the topic this weekend was "Do Yourself a Favor and Forgive"; it was a powerful message. Here are a few things that really stood out:

• It's not what happens to me, it's how I respond that makes a difference! Let every situation make you better, not bitter.
• As we continue to bring up offense, talking repeatedly about those who hurt or treat us unfairly (spouse, kids, neighbors, bad drivers, boss, siblings, government) - we are harboring unforgiveness and only hurting ourselves. Continually revisiting the offense is like carrying around dead weight. Bitterness is like an infection that will spread throughout our lives.
• Unforgiveness hurts you; it holds you captive.
• Things don't have to be good to work out for good.

In addition to the inspiring message, it was FUN! There were t-shirt giveaways using a giant slingshot, awesome praise and worship music from Hillsong London, mock game shows with cool prizes, creative video clips, and powerful presentations.

Someone else took this neat photo of Hillsong London at the conference!

I was able to connect with my friend Amy and a few faithbooking friends! It was a weekend full of laughter and tears. There were new faces and cool stories, magnificent prayer and worship - I left feeling rested and refilled. Joyce probably won't be in town for another 3-4 years but when she comes back, YOU MUST ATTEND!!

Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous -- with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy! Matthew 5:7