This past weekend, I had the privilege of attending a women’s conference, and let me tell you, it was exactly what my heart needed. Sometimes life has a way of wearing us down. Between the busyness of our families, the struggles we carry in silence, and the battles we fight in our own hearts, it’s easy to forget just how much we need moments of stillness with God and fellowship with other women who share the same faith.
The conference wasn’t just down the street, it was four hours away, and it lasted two full days. Honestly, the drive, the time, the effort…it was all worth it. My husband drove us out there, and while I was at the conference, he and our other two kids planned activities to keep themselves busy. I was so thankful for his support, because it gave me the opportunity to truly focus and be present in what God had for me.
What made it even more special was that I got to take my 10-year-old daughter with me. This was her first time experiencing something like this, and to see her little face light up during worship and fellowship melted my heart. She loved it! There were other young girls her age, and they connected, laughed, and enjoyed the experience in their own way. It reminded me that faith isn’t just about what I can receive, but also about what I can model and pass on. I am so glad I get to be a mother to my daughter, walking beside her in faith, showing her by example what it looks like to worship and serve God.
I’ll be honest though, I was nervous going in. This was my very first women’s conference, and I didn’t know what to expect. But deep down I knew this was something I wanted to do. I went with a few ladies from my church, and along the way we connected with other women from our city. The fellowship was beautiful. They served us meals, and in between the sessions we even got to enjoy art and crafts that added such a fun, creative touch to the experience.
I sang until my voice was tired, and I cried until my heart felt lighter. We had three powerful women speakers, each of them so full of passion for Christ. The way they spoke lit a fire in me, because I could feel the same passion stirring in my own heart. It was like God was confirming that He placed me there in that exact moment to be reminded of His calling and His love.
I left that conference not only with notes from teachings that stirred my soul, but also with a renewed sense of purpose. God reminded me that my brokenness isn’t wasted. The tears I shed weren’t for nothing, they were healing. The songs I sang weren’t just words, they were prayers. And the lessons I learned weren’t just for the moment, they are truths I can carry into every part of my life.
That’s the beauty of these gatherings, they aren’t just conferences, they are life-changing encounters. You walk in carrying burdens, uncertainty, maybe even fear like I did, but you walk out with freedom, joy, and a renewed fire for God. You realize you’re not alone in your struggles, and you gain sisters in Christ who will lift you up in prayer and walk alongside you in faith.
So if you’ve never attended one, I encourage you, look for a women’s conference near you and take that step. Even if it feels outside of your comfort zone, even if you have to travel or rearrange your schedule, it is worth it. You will laugh, you will cry, you will worship, and you will leave changed. Most importantly, you will encounter God in a way that will remind you of His love and His purpose for your life.
I walked in nervous and tired but I walked out renewed, joyful, and grateful. Grateful for the experience, for the women I met, for the message I received, and most of all, for the chance to share this moment with my daughter.
Now I’d love to hear from you, have you ever attended a women’s conference, retreat, or gathering? What was your experience like? If not, would you ever consider going? Leave a comment below and share your story. Your words might be the encouragement another woman needs to take that same step of faith. 💗
Holy mess 