By: Kacie Starr Long

I recently returned from an incredibly uplifting experience at the Jewel Warrior conference in Bourbon, MO, where the theme was "Fight Like a Girl with Radical Faith."
It was an immense privilege to not only attend but also to serve as both a speaker and a workshop presenter. Having been to numerous Christian women's conferences in the past, I can confidently say that there's something uniquely powerful about the atmosphere at Jewel Warrior gatherings.
The conference was characterized by a beautiful mix of tears and laughter, as is often the case.
I vividly recall one particular moment from a past conference when my pregnant friend

named Holly fearlessly ran around the sanctuary barefoot, waving a worship flag with infectious joy. Another image etched in my memory from previous years is of my friend Victoria, completely uninhibited as she danced on stage with her worship flag, basking in the presence of Jesus. I titled that blog post, "Who Are These People?" because I was both mesmerized and incredulous at their freedom, boldness and the witness of so many others who praised God boldly and unashamed.
God's presence always moves profoundly at Jewel Warrior conferences, and this year was no exception.
Amidst the powerful testimonies, laughter, worship, tears and connection, I experienced a personal revelation that deeply touched my heart.
During a session with my small group, I opened up about feeling burdened by a sin from my past, convinced that I was being punished by God and trapped in its consequences. I asked for prayer, and our group went to the next person to share.

The following day, Keely from my small group handed me a handwritten note.
I KNEW the words were authored by God Himself. They were prophetic, and encouraging. They also consisted of a strategy and assured me of God's forgiveness and how I needed to forgive myself.
In that moment, I realized the immense power of community and the valuable role it plays in our spiritual journey.
Keely's note reminded me that we are not meant to navigate life's challenges alone; we need the support and wisdom of our brothers and sisters in Christ. Keely was able to see how I could climb out of the pit of despair and hopelessness, and out of obedience she wrote out the strategy God had given her just for me.
This experience at the conference reinforces the importance of authentic, God-centered relationships and the transformative impact they can have on our lives.
I am deeply grateful for the community I have found at Jewel Warrior and am committed to being a vessel through which God can bring healing and deliverance to others in need.

God has not called us to do life alone. We are not called to live on islands where we are self-reliant, and self-sufficient. We need a spiritual community that consists of faith-filled believers, and we need to do whatever it takes to find a community, and be open and receptive to those in the community.
Maybe you are a woman in need of a supportive community rooted in faith, I highly recommend considering joining Jewel Warrior. You can find more information and sign up for their daily devotions on their website. And mark your calendars for the next conference, taking place in Bourbon, MO from February 28 to March 2, 2025. I have no doubt that you will be blessed by the experience!
Learning To Forgive Yourself
Do you find it hard to forgive yourself? I recently did teaching about Learning To Forgive Yourself, based on Keely's note. You can watch the teaching by clicking here.
PS: If you haven't heard, my latest book "Inspired: 40 ish Devotions for the Woman who Enjoys Laughter, Strength and Encouragement is now available for purchase You can learn more by clicking here.

Hi, my name is Kacie Starr Long. I am an author, and speaker and I love to use my voice to point people to Jesus. When I'm not writing, I'm either working out at Orange Theory Fitness or sewing. I'm in recovery from compulsive overeating and I have a sewing ministry, called the Sew Hope Community Sewing Room. I am the proud wife of Alfred T. Long, Sr and together we lead a non-profit that serves prisoners and their families. Connect with me at www.InspiredOverflow.com and via my YouTube page for Christian teachings and encouragement.
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