This past weekend, I attended the Beth Moore conference in San Antonio with my sisters-in-law and mother-in-law.
Beth did not fail to deliver! I have read several books of her and watched different studies on video, but this was the first time I had seen her in person. The woman is an amazing presenter and communicator! She has just the right mix of sound, well-reasoned, faith-filled teachings with a bit of humor thrown in.
As I left the conference, I found myself profoundly struck by several specific points she made, the first of which I wanted to share as today’s “Motivational Monday” message…
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The overarching theme of the weekend was what a beautiful inheritance we as children of God have. One of her points was that, as heirs of God, we can rest and find our identity and security in him. That point led to the side discussion I found so insightful.
Beth observed that we as women struggle with insecurity in two main areas of our lives: affirmation and affection.
She stated:
If we truly realized our security in Christ, we wouldn’t crave affirmation and affection from others so much!
Wow.
That statement hit me like a ton of bricks. So true. She went on to say that seeking these things from outside sources is problematic for several reasons…
First, it places a human in a “Christ position” in your life. That is, allowing someone’s opinions of you to shape your identity and security puts that person in a very powerful, god-like position. No human deserves to have that much control over your security.
Secondly, it places way too much pressure on another human. If you are constantly dependent on another person to feel secure, that puts on enormous amount of pressure on that person! No human is equipped to bear that responsibility solely. In fact, if you are constantly seeking these things from other people, you will be a drain on those around you. Conversely, though, as you grow in your security, you will draw people to yourself. People will want to be around you!
Does that speak to you, as it did me? I hope so.
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With all that in mind, as you go through your week…
1. Be conscious of how often you “lean” on other people for affirmation and affection. Be aware of how much stock you put into how people react to you or treat you.
2. Do things for others with pure motives. Do not do things, looking for the payoff of validation from others.
3. Above all, rest secure in Christ.
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Your blogs always seem to hit me at the right time. THANKS!
I to watched a simulcast with Beth Moore last year. Amazing. I also did a DVD series in bible study with Andy Stanley this past spring. Equally amazing.
Maybe a little less known but the absolute best faith inspiration to me ever was a Whole Woman’s Conference I attended about a year and a half ago and the keynote speaker was Rhea Briscoe. I am still so blessed to have heard her gift. Her sharing of her faith truly changed my life. There is just something about her. So real. Like the girl next door but God certainly blessed her with a gift to share. If she ever comes to your area I strongly encourage you to not miss a word she has to say.
Angie
Comment by Angie 08.26.08 @ 2:05 amBeth Moore is always an encouragement to me. Thank you for sharing these truths with us today. They are a good reminder, especially at the beginning of a long week.
Comment by Jackie 08.26.08 @ 7:13 amHi Carrie, while I am not particularly religious, this message resonated very strongly with me. Now… how to find a way to send it to my insecure sister-in-law. =)
Comment by Alison 08.26.08 @ 1:43 pmI am so glad that you posted this Care. This was one of the points that we discussed on the way home that really struck both of us, and I loved reading your recap. This past weekend was SUCH an incredible time…time with the women I love most on earth, praising the ONE I love most. It was such an amazing experience, and Ialso really enjoyed having you ALL to myself on the ride to S.A. and back to The Woodlands(even though Brad insists we went to Austin).
Love you,
Nat
I always visit your blog to see what you have posted and I always leave feeling inspired. What a great way that God is using you to inspire others. Thank you for taking the time to care about others so much!
Comment by Tina 08.26.08 @ 6:35 pmHi Carrie, Thanks for sharing. I’ve been to several series of Beth Moore’s Tuesday night women’s bible studies and thoroughly enjoyed every one! She’s very insightful! I particularly needed to hear what your blog had to say today. Thanks for that! Have a blessed week!
Comment by Running Mel 08.26.08 @ 8:18 pmCare,
I LOVE that the main thing that spoke to you last weekend was the biggie for me too. I recently struggled with some things regarding friendships…..I need to continually realize that I need to draw from Christ and no one else for my affirmation!!!
It was SO wonderful to spend the weekend with you…so much fun….so much bonding….such a blessing! Thank you for making it a priority to come even though your life could NOT be any busier at this time!!!
I love you tons and it is a huge blessing to call you my sister!
Richele
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I am enjoying your blog so much.:) I am so glad that you were able to see Beth Moore in person. I saw her last month in a simulcast. There were 70,000 women across the country watching her. It was wonderful. I always get so much out of her lessons. I will be thinking of your 3 points this week - TFS.
Comment by Linda J 08.25.08 @ 7:49 pm