What does it mean to be for something?
When someone puts their name and reputation on the line to be for a religion or for a cause or for a relationship, they are invested in new and deep ways that feel dangerous and sometimes even scary. Maybe it feels unsure to give of your belief or faith because our culture is saturated with self-centeredness and narcissism.
But this past weekend, I sat around a dinner table with the full conviction of being for specific women. The women who sat around this table spoke about new dreams, current fears, life’s struggles, and deepest hopes. Just hours before, we lead IF:Gathering for attendees from around the nation and had online viewers from around the globe.
Our heart was to serve them, pour into them, build them up, and let them know that we were for them. Thousands of women tuned in and worshipped together in one voice believing that it was possible to stand in unity.
Photo cred: Lindsey Nobles
The women who attended the conference both online and in person were amazing, opening their hearts and minds to issues like racial reconciliation, repentance, and remembering obedience.
In a world screaming for individual recognition, it’s rare to find people who genuinely care about your personal growth and maturity. But over copious amounts of sushi and laughter, trust grew and honesty brewed.
What we discovered was that we are a people group that is for each other, for women, for the move of God, for revival, for clarity, for the honest struggle, for the wrestle, for the inquiry, for the Truth, for the lost, for the gospel, and for the Bible.
Each of these leaders are amazing. Some lead counter-cultural thought movements, others build homes and new dreams, others use words to free people, and some create art that reflects the beauty of humanity. Each one is called to something specific, but the goal the same: live in the fullness of our purpose to which we are called. And I am for them.
![L-R: Lauren Chandler, Esther Havens, Lindsey Nobles, Jen Hatmaker, Jennie Allen, me, Angie Smith, Rebekah Lyons, Ann Voskamp. [Missing: Christine Caine, Shelley Giglio, Debbie Eaton]](http://www.biancaolthoffarchive.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Screen-Shot-2015-02-09-at-4.56.10-AM.png)
L-R: Lauren Chandler, Esther Havens, Lindsey Nobles, Jennie Allen, me, Angie Smith, Rebekah Lyons, Ann Voskamp. [Missing: Christine Caine, Shelley Giglio, Debbie Eaton]
It’s basic mathematics. Nothing divided can grow. But what if we multiplied our belief in each other? What if we chose to find ways to add to our strength rather than subtract from our collective influence? Our possibilities are ad infinitum.
My desire for us as Christians—as followers of Christ—is to be known for what we are for rather than what we are against. Yes, yes, I know we need our distinctives and orthodoxy, but what if we led with love? Does that sound totally Pollyanna? It does, but whatevs, man. It’s true.
If you are lost and searching, there are people who are for you. If you are doubting and skeptical, there are people are who are for you. If you are questioning or scared, there are people who are for you. If you are legalistic and your underwear are too tight, there are people who will love you. If you live in world of black and white, there are people who will love you. If you are stuck in pharisaical judgement, there are people who will love you.
And it starts with me. Before I demand that from anyone else, I demand it from myself. I am for you. We are for you. He is for you. You are loved.
*****
If you want more information on the fabulous racial reconciliation discussion, you can download a guide for free HERE or livestream the various sessions HERE. See, you are loved!
I literally thought of you this morning! This is amazing. IF Gathering was so needed. I love your words and I honestly believe you represent this. You may not remember but there was an event in Dallas I came to hear you speak at and I was in a difficult season and not only did you encourage me but you took my hand and prayed for me! It touched my heart in so many ways. That it’s not just the talk on the stage, but you live it out on the pavement. You truly are for people 🙂
Hate I didn’t give you a hug in Austin!
Praying for you,
Destiny O from Texas! 🙂
Girlllllll you know I LOVE you. I’ll be in Frisco and Dallas again this year. I would love to see you again! XO
These thoughts echo the song that is on my heart this morning as I reflect on the amazing experience of the IF:Gathering weekend. I was blessed to join an incredible group of women watching from NJ and was blown away by the passion displayed for sharing God’s Word with truth and love.
I am ready to “Walk It Out!” Thank you for reminding me that the results are God’s responsibility…my responsibility is simply my response.
Blessings and thanks to you and the whole IF Team,
Sarah 🙂
Yay! Go Jersey! Love that you could be there with us.
I watched from home this year. I had a ticket to Austin, but due to some things over the last month or so, I just felt like I needed to be home. I was so thankful for the live stream. So thankful for you and your boldness in your ministry. I am for you, my friend.
You are the best! I’m praying for you RIGHT NOW.
Thank you for this and for your message at IF. Powerful! I’m still reflecting on it Wednesday morning. I was encouraged to keep walking it out in some difficulties that I’m growing rather weary of. Keep doing what you’re doing. God is blessing so many of us through your words.
Praying for you Jen! Keep walking it out.
This has been my anthem for as long as I’ve been old enough to see and know that there are walls between people and between churches. I was at IF: Austin in 2014 and hosted a small gathering for my leaders last weekend in preparation for our larger gathering on the 27-28 of this month. We are passionate about a gathering of local women from varied racial, socioeconomic, age, churched and unchurched backgrounds. Thank you for bringing TRUTH and reading the word as a Telenovela 😉 Loved that. I listen to Chris’ podcast each week and love how you add your spice and strength to the conversation, sister. Press on and keep speaking the truth in love with crazy passion, humor, and boldness. Grateful for you and praying over your ministry as you serve and lead.