As women (and some men, as there were quite a few chaplains there also) of all sizes, shapes and colors gathered together, I experienced a taste of what I imagine heaven might be like. It was simply amazing. And the Holy Spirit was moving amongst us! You could feel the presence of the Lord!
Priscilla Shirer was the keynote speaker - and she delivered several impactful messages (you may hear more about those later! I'm still processing!!) Another challenging message was delivered by Chaplain (General Major) Doug Carver. In discussing the suicide rates, he mentioned three contributing factors:
- "Dear John" letters - or relationship issues
- Fear of public shame - (ie) if someone knows they are about to be "caught" for something shameful they have done
- Isolation - feeling alone
- Pray - there is much power in prayer - be lifting up the military and their leaders.
- Proclaim life (not death) - the media already lets us know about all the evil that is in this world - let's speak words of life and encouragement - words of hope!
- Promote honor - live your life in a way that glorifies the Lord - be holy and humble.
- Have a passion for souls... don't just see those around you as a bunch of people - but as souls that either face eternity with God or eternal separation from Him. Share the gospel!
- Make worship a priority. Take time to spend with the Lord - both individually and corporately.
