Surprises:
Steve Fee showed up and played a few songs and then gave everyone a free copy of his new CD, Hope Rising. That was an unexpected surprise! I must say…hearing Glory to God Forever live was inspiring. The third session with Pastor Steven Furtick included a very special guest, Perry Noble from NewSpring Church in Anderson, SC. Hearing them interact about ministry was very helpful.
Stories:
Throughout the sessions, Pastor Steven shared the story of Elevation Church and how God has used their ministry in the city of Charlotte. His stories were especially near to my heart since I grew up in Charlotte. In just three and a half years, God has done some incredible things through Elevation and those stories were invigorating for me.
Staff:
The volunteer staff was AWESOME and the paid staff were available throughout the day. Those who attended the event had full access to the people who make Elevation what it is. You probably don’t get that at many other conferences.
Stirring of the Soul:
There is so much I could share here, but I’ll only highlight a few of the things God hit me with during the four sessions:
- Three essential core values which should be a part of the church: Audacity (faith), Honor, and Generosity
- “We want to be known by what we are for, not what we are against”
- Act on the vision God has shown YOU.
- Say it until you see it
- True vision is holding onto what you cannot see yet
- Don’t think too small
- Our generation must restore honor to the church and that starts by honoring God
- Honor men of God, the word of God, and other ministries
- Respect is earned, honor is not
- Excellence is custom designed
- Simplicity enables excellence
- Build for what God is going to do
- Momentum – you don’t create it, you just ride it
- I prepare, God blesses
- Embrace the pain that lies between you and God
- There is an emotional, physical, and relational cost to your calling
Hey, Tom! Great blog. My name is Lance Crawford…I am a pastor down in Tallahassee, FL… and I have a question about the Impart conference and was wondering if you could shoot me your email so I could send you one back. My email is lancecrawford84@gmail.com. Thanks so much!