“In Genesis, God saw Hagar, a slave, in the middle of her desperation. God, “El Roi,” she declared to Him, “You are the God who sees me” Genesis 16:13. God sees everyone, no matter their circumstances, no matter how undervalued and disrespected they are. Just as He spoke encouragement and instruction to Hagar in her darkest times, so He will faithfully encourage and instruct you.” (from the Time Apart conference program guide).
The Time Apart conference was held in Columbus, Ohio, September 27 & 28, 2019. What a weekend! We experienced 2 days of powerful speakers, encouragement, lots of laughs, mighty worship, all to inspire us as women of God. I left Recharged, Refreshed and Renewed. It was my first time but hopefully not my last.
Our main speaker was Dr. Melissa Alfaro. She Pastors a church in Texas with her husband. So much of Melissa’s message spoke to my heart. I couldn’t take notes fast enough, trying to capture her words. Some of what she talked about was commitment, obedience and surrender. Melissa spoke with boldness, conviction and so much truth. (The following quotes are from my notes and may not be exactly what Melissa said).
“Nothing significant happens without commitment.”
“His favor follows your obedience”
“Surrender is trusting His purpose and His process.”
Melissa shared some of her infertility story, some of the pain and heartache that goes along with it. Several years later they received their promise: a baby boy. For a second I thought about us not getting our baby and again, asked God why. I believe He reminded me that for now, on this sweet earth, I’m to continue to give birth to the words He plants in my heart, sharing them at my online home: BarbaraAnnRepan.com.
Have you ever wanted to go to a conference and didn’t because of feeling lost in the crowd, or not having someone to go with? Sometimes it’s just our stupid insecurities that prevent us from these experiences. I’ve been to many conferences, most of them have been great and a few not so great. I allowed a bad experience to keep me from going to several. I’m glad I stepped out of my comfort zone this time, drove the 2 hours to the big city, just me and Jesus, cruising I70. I’m glad I went and hope to go next year. I did hang out some with this bunch of fun gals. 
Life has a way of beating us down at times. This was a weekend being reminded how much God values us, adores us, and treasures us. The weekend had much of what I love; making new friends, worshipping my God, shopping, and learning.
YOU are valued, cherished, chosen and adored
For more information visit: WWW.OMNWOMEN.NET
Love your article Barbara, especially the quoted notes you took from speaker, Dr. Melissa.
Wish I could have gone…maybe a dog sitter that I am comfortable with will come along.
Hi Gina, You would have loved it! Yes, let’s find her a sitter so you can go next time. Thanks for stopping by. 🙂