Influencers 2011 Conference notes

Hi Leaders & church family
I want to record my impressions from the Influencers conference to 'share some of the love' we experienced at this wonderful event.
It was a blessing to be sponsored to attend this conference, about 12 of us in all were able to attend and it was a great time of fellowship with our brothers and sisters from Grace. Ashley Evans started off the sessions with a message called 'Poison Ivy' (This can be downloaded off Paradise Church's website/or as a podcast) It dealt with the entanglement of sin and issues from Hebrews 12:1

Ps Ashley spoke of the 'bitter root' that defiles many; unfortunately sometimes other peoples issues can 'get on us' if we are not careful. He explained that he had had a particular difficult year last year (No Kidding?) but when asked by a friend how he survived he said "I have cleansed myself" - his ability to shake off and resist the defilement of sin in himself & from others enabled him to survive the year 'intact'


He posed the question: Are we more free, more trusting, more forgiving after 2010? or do we need to do some spiritual 'cleansing?'


Ps Ashley's indicators we have been adversely affected by others:
> A negative attitude change
> Inability to trust
> Identity crisis
> Faith issues
> Lingering sadness
> An uncertain future
> Depression


In John 13 the Gospel records the incident of the 'washing of feet' - this was a custom to cleanse them of daily defilement - Peter resists him and is told "If you don't partake in this then you have no part with me" When Peter says "then also my hands & head" Jesus said: "You are already clean" Yet he still insisted that he/they submit to this foot wash - illustrative of our spiritual state in Christ and the operation of the word washing us, yet the need for regular cleansing from daily defilement.


Ps Ashley's suggestions for spiritual renewal:
> Declare a spiritual vision over/for your life.
> Follow Jesus commands i.e. "Whatever he says do it"
> Use Matt 18 as a protocol to resolve relational issues.
> Spend time with positive people.
> Seek a fresh encounter with God.


I hope that this summary of the message helps & inspires you to be 'clean' and go on to victory in your life.
Regards,
Ps Rhett