I would like to extend a big shout out to all the women who were able to be a part of the Priscilla Shirer Simulcast this past weekend. It was a blessed time together, and I enjoyed every moment. I pray you did as well.

I would also like to thank those of you who helped make this event happen. It was a group effort and truly felt like a family function. Thank You for making it so special!

Today, let’s spend some time recapping what we learned, especially since Priscilla made a point to encourage us to do more than just listen and then move on to the next seminar, Bible study, or church service. But to allow what we learned and the power of God’s Word to take root and change us.

I believe the take-home message from all the teachings combined was this—to be expectant and to look for an encounter with God that not only changes us but leaves a mark.

Truth is, transformation is a conscious choice. It takes focus. Posturing. Reticence. It is a decision of will to be marked by His Presence.

Marked by His Presence. Doesn’t that sound profound? I think we all want that—to be a better version of ourselves, don’t we? So what did we learn about how His Presence can mark us?

First, we learned about a man named Simeon.

Simeon was righteous, devout and looking for God to reveal Himself.

In short, he was a man expecting an encounter with God. He was devoted to the LORD on a personal level, righteous in the sight of others, and purposefully looking for God to make himself known. Quite a resume! This makes me question what would be said about me?

What I do know, is that as I looked around the room of women this past weekend, I saw a posture of devotion focused on learning, a desire to experience God, and a sweet aroma of love for those around them. Oh, to share space with you beautiful ladies was an honor. Not only do we share a special bond of friendship, but our faith connects us.

Second, we learned how to hear the voice of God by utilizing a practical application for studying the scriptures. Exodus 14:13-14 was our example. I think this exercise was a real gem. One we can adopt into our own study time. The goal—to unearth more of who God is because…when we know God better, we hear Him better!

In case you would also like to give it a try, here are the 5 P’s of Bible Study we learned:

1. Position yourself to hear from God with a posture of silence.
2. Pour over the passage and paraphrase the main ideas.
3. Pull out the spiritual principle.
4. Pose a personal question.
5. Plan obedience.

Finally, we learned that to be marked by His presence, we needed the Spirit to be at work in us as well as upon us. Our charge, to yield our thoughts, words, relationships, and desires to Him by sifting them through His presence. In doing so, He can make His mark by influencing a different view of the world around us.

As a group, we laughed. We cried. We learned. And we prayed. I believe we all grew in some profound ways. God has much to show us, that is a given. So let’s set our internal compass to be like Simeon—a posture of devotion, right in our relationships with others, and looking to know Him better!

Are you desperate for an encounter with God? Do you need Him to invade the space of your deepest struggle? Your most difficult questions? God has a good plan for your life. Fear not! Stand firm! And wait in expectation to see the mark of His presence.

Reflect and Respond:

This week, try and carve out a few sacred moments to experience the presence of God.  Pick one of your favorite scriptures, Perhaps one that someone has recently sent you for encouragement, or one from your quiet time reading plan. Then, practice the 5 P’s and see if you can hear something specific God wants to reveal about who He is—His character, His love, His purpose.

Keep in mind; once we know Him better, we can hear Him better when it comes to the questions of our own lives.

Hugs for a great week and remember, you are not alone. Be blessed and be marked by His presence.