Two weeks ago I attended The Declare Conference, near Dallas, Texas. Declare is a conference equipping women, to walk in their calling as Christian communicators, as bloggers, writers, and speakers.
This was my first time attending a writing conference. I had some idea of what to expect but I did not, like I usually do, have gigantic expectations. The only thing I expected was God to show up and speak to my heart about this writing journey.
He is faithful and never disappointments.
Monday evening, several of us from Hope Writer’s, an online community, met for dinner, some meeting for the first time. I enjoyed getting to know these gals. These are my people!
Writing is a lonely job. Yes, God inspires, guides and is present. But to be with likeminded gals, was such a blessing. They get me. We share a lot of the same struggles and joys.
The Monday evening opening was awesome. In fact, the entire conference was awesome. The speakers, the worship, the team hosts, the food, the freebies, The Prayer Room, meeting bloggers, authors, speakers and making new friends. I went alone, but never once felt alone. I was with my people. I learned so much about writing, blogging, social media, podcasting and much, much more.
Yes, I learned a lot from each speaker but more importantly I came home more in love with Jesus. He was SO present at Declare. He gently told me to surrender. Surrender this writing. Surrender my insecurities. I’m not qualified to do it, but He will equip me. He asks me to be obedient and write what He places in my heart. Some I have. Some I haven’t. Yet. I easily get sidetracked learning, doing and organizing, rather than writing. Just before the conference I was contemplating joining another writers training group and purchasing more online materials. He spoke to my heart that I did not need to purchase any more resources. I have all I need right now and that is Him.
Next year the theme at Declare is Warrior! “Fight the good fight for the true faith. Hold tightly to the eternal life to which God has called you, which you have declared so well before many witnesses.” 2 Timothy 6:12 NLT
He’s so good to guide us! We all need that surrender, too, even though it doesn’t feel like it sometimes. Thank you for sharing your story!
Hi Heather, thank you for stopping by.
The call to obedience was one that I felt strongly as well. Glad we met at the conference!
Hi Sara, I’m thankful we met also. Thanks for stopping by. ❤️⚓️
Wow Barbara!!! Your conference sounded awesome! Praying I might be able to go next year! Surrender is what HE desires from us…thank you for sharing your adventure with us! You are so inspiring…????
Blessings, Love and Hugs!
Carol Ann
It was a fabulous conference, One I highly recommend. I hope you can go next year. Hope all is well with you. <3
I had a great time at Declare too! So good to be surrounded by other Jesus girls who get us! Thanks for sharing your experience at Declare, and maybe next year we will meet.
Hi Misty, I sure hope to go again and would love to meet you too. Thanks for stopping by here.