Las Vegas Archives
Monday, July 14, 2008
The Bridge
"There's a bridge to cross the Great Divide. A way was made to reach the other side. The mercy of the Father cost His Son His life. His love is deep. His love is wide. There's a cross to bridge the Great Divide."
I woke up this morning with memories of Atlanta swirling in my head and visions of Las Vegas fresh on my heart. Life goes so fast that we barely get to internalize one amazing experience before we are thrust forward to take in the next one in front of us.
That's the way I feel today. Like I'm walking across a bridge here in the weeks between all that we embraced in Atlanta and the God-adventure ahead in Las Vegas.
There are many preparations and lots of planning to do to clear the way for the folks in Las Vegas to get their Word from God on Sept. 5th and 6th. Observing deep and fresh encounters just a few weeks ago at Philips Arena is what is fueling my mind and encouraging me to watch every detail carefully, following God's lead, until we get across the bridge to Las Vegas.
The quote above is the lyrics to one of my all time favorite songs by Point of Grace. It so clearly describes that there is one way to peace with God...through the shed blood at the cross where His Son died in our place. Praise you, Lord, for providing a way for us!!!
I'm a really visual person. When my feet hit the ground in Las Vegas last week for a site visit and luncheon, I felt like a wave came crashing over me. All the lights, the dinging, the music, the advertisements - and that was only in the airport! Las Vegas is so much glitz and glamour.
I met some of the sweetest ladies at our luncheon and reconnected with Jennifer and Diana who have worked tirelessly to build a network for this event. We talked and shared information and prayed fiercely for all the women who would come to the Thomas and Mack Center.
Will you join us in our prayer for women who come with needs that many of us are familiar with - marital problems, infertility, loss, guilt, illness, emotional needs .......
but specifically in this sin-city would you join us in praying that God would draw women from the "the industry" to Himself. Where there are signs lining every street advertising women who have given themselves over to all sorts of things....we know that God wants to gently but firmly lead them to The Bridge that leads to The Cross!!!
Would you offer a prayer for them right here as a comment? Let's bombard the Throne Room on behalf of these sisters.
Betsy
Event Coordinator for Deeper Still: The Event
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Taking a Poll
As I've been reflecting on Deeper Still: The Event in Atlanta and preparing for Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas, I thought of something really fun we need to do! Before the Deeper Still events we always try to do a "roll call" to find out where everyone is coming from to the women's event.
One thing we've never asked is how many "rookies" and "veterans" we have coming to the events. I would love for you to share with us if Deeper Still: The Event was your first LifeWay women's event! Also, I would love to hear from some of you who are often "on the road" with us at Living Proof Live events with Beth Moore, Going Beyond events with Priscilla Shirer or other LifeWay women's events!
So, let us hear about your rookie experience at Deeper Still in Atlanta or where you've been as a veteran of LifeWay women's events. How has God used these women's events in your life or the women's ministry at your church?
Monday, July 28, 2008
Prayer Line Nightly for Deeper Still Las Vegas!
Dear Friends,
We are so excited to announce that there is a specific prayer line set up to allow women and men to join each other in prayer nightly. How amazing!
This dedicated line will be open nationwide to call in to pray specifically for the Deeper Still Conference. The prayer line started last night, July 27, and is continuing for 40 days leading up to the event in Las Vegas on Sept. 5-6.
Here is the phone number and directions for the Deeper Still Prayer Line. The phone line will be open for 2 hours every night during the following times:
5-7 pm Pacific time
6-8 pm Mountain
7-9 pm Central
8-10pm Eastern
There can be up to 96 prayer warriors on the line at the same time from any time zone.
Telephone Number: 712-432-0031
Access Code: 262799#
Instructions:
To reach the Prayer Call In line, dial 712-432-0031, enter 262799 #.
You will be connected to the conference call.
Every caller will be able to talk/pray simultaneously.
The best way to enter into the ongoing prayer is to state your name, the city/state you are calling from and then listen to the direction the prayer is going and wait on the Lord to direct your prayer.
Although the line is open for two hours, you may pray for 1 minute or up to two hours on the line.
Additional features are available while on the line by using the following keys:
*3 Exit - exit the conference call
*4 Instructions - conference instructions
*6 Mute/Un-mute - caller controlled muting
Frequently asked questions:
What are the costs involved in a Prayer Conference Call?
Only normal long distance charges by each caller's carrier apply.
There will be no bill or charges from Greater Calling for this service.
How many callers can be in a single conference?
96 caller maximum in each conference with no required minimum number.
Can I use a calling card to call in for the Prayer Call?
Yes. You may also use 10-10-### services to connect at favorable rates.
Can international callers participate?
Basically, anyone who can dial a US telephone number should be able to dial a Prayer Call number.
Is this a VoIP service or an Internet service using my computer?
No, this is a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) conferencing service that utilizes your regular telephone.
We appreciate your participation in praying for this conference. May God continue to bless your life as you continue to serve His people.
Many Blessings,
The Steering Team
Deeper Still - The Event
...like a tree planted beside streams of water. Psalm 1:3
www.lifeway.com/women
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed
How many of you are getting ready to promote or start your Women's Bible Studies for the Fall? We've had several questions on the blog related to Bible Studies and tons of you wanting to know more about the Deeper Still Nashville taping and the Bible study created from that event.
Our sister, Deanne, specifically wanted to know more about this Bible study for a group of young women she leads. So, Deanne, I hope this info helps answer your questions and the questions of many others!
Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed: A Study of David is seven sessions and was taped at the 2007 Deeper Still Event in Nashville. The first session is an intro session. The following six sessions explore the life of David in three segments. Priscilla Shirer focuses on David as a young man, Beth Moore examines David in middle-age, and Kay Arthur looks at the final third of David's life.
Each DVD Bible study session is approximately one hour. The Bible study books include daily homework that builds on the DVD teaching sessions. It is a similar format to other Beth Moore, Priscilla Shirer, or LifeWay women's Bible Studies you may have completed. (Intro session, do daily homework during the week, then meet for DVD teaching session--you know the plan!)
You can use the seven Bible study sessions as a retreat, women's Bible study, or on your own.
Click here to see the online LifeWay catalog about Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed: A Study of David and watch previews of all three amazing Bible study teachers!
The release date for Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed: A Study of David is September 1st...so it won't be long now! And great news for all our Las Vegas sisters...the LifeWay Bookstore at Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas will have this new Bible study DVD kit and Bible study workbooks available for sale!
So, that is one option to kick off your Fall Women's Bible studies! What other Bible studies will you or your church be leading this fall season?
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Rapid Heartbeats.. .. ..
Well sisters, we are nearing the end of summer, so our family did a quick trip over to Splash Country in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee to make sure we go out with a bang (or splash) before school starts in August. To keep a family of five happy for an extended length of time is no easy task...but I can't even begin to tell you how much fun we had!!!
It was a perfect day. Really...I'm not kidding. It was beautiful and sunny in the morning and then was a little overcast during the heat of the day. As my husband and two older girls took off for the "fun, take your breath away" waterslides, I hung out with my youngest daughter. There is nothing like looking at the world through the eyes of a child. As we floated the lazy river she would get so excited, "Mommy, look at the trees!" "Mommy, we are just floating and floating and floating--this river never stops!"
My favorite and most memorable experience was going down a waterslide with my seven-year-old. You need to understand that we had never been to Splash Country and don't go to water parks on a regular basis. The whole waterslide experience can be a little scary especially when you are seven, or maybe a little older (that is all I'm saying). I put on my most calm, brave face and said, "Come on, we can do this!" As Kaia snuggled next to me I wrapped my arms around her little body. My hand was positioned in just the right place to feel her sweet little heartbeat. It was so precious...and began to beat faster and faster and faster. As we glided down that waterslide, she laughed and screamed (or was that me?) and that little heart just kept pumping faster and faster. As we splashed into the water at the end, she jumped up and down saying, "Let's do that again!" (And of course, we did...again and again and again....)
As I thought about her rapid heartbeats later that day, I also thought of you my sweet Deeper Still sisters. And I prayed that all of us would have hearts beating faster for God as we continue to go deeper still with Him. That is truly what I want for you and for me.
Well, my heart continues to beat rapidly even though it has been days since the whole waterslide experience. Right now my heart is beating faster as I think about this weekend. The Living Proof Live Simulcast Event is this weekend in Louisville, Kentucky and we could really use our prayer warriors. I can't tell you how much prayer and effort has gone into this amazing ministry. We are so thankful the Lord has provided this opportunity for women from churches all over the country to participate in a Living Proof Live Event with Beth Moore. So, pray with us this weekend or join us at a participating simulcast church in your area...and may our hearts keep beating faster for Him as we go deeper still...
Monday, August 4, 2008
Word of the Day...and for 2009!
Let's start off this week with a fun activity. Go stand in front of a mirror. Hold up both hands and then hold up three fingers on both hands creating "W" and "W." Now hold the "Ws" on either side of your face. Open your mouth and make an "O." What does it spell? W-O-W! Yes, WOW, WOW, WOW!
WOW! That is my one word for the weekend and the Living Proof Live Simulcast Event with Beth Moore in Louisville, Kentucky. I knew it was an awesome event at Southeast Christian Church the live location because I was there! God brought a word to us through Beth's teaching that did not disappoint 715 churches and over 70,000 viewers! And then it was so incredible for me to hear my friends, from my church in Tennessee, talking about all that God did throughout the weekend once I returned home! And it gets another WOW when we think about all the women across the country and around the world sowing the seed of the Word of God in their communities! Talk about 100-fold blessing!!!
Well, I am also excited about the WOW factor for 2009! Yes...LifeWay Women's Events is beginning to release dates and locations for 2009! In addition to Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas, September 5-6, 2008...we now have two Deeper Still dates and locations solidified for 2009!
September 18-19, 2009 at Amway Arena in Orlando, Florida and...
December 4-5, 2009 at Cox Business Services Convention Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and...
Keep watching the Deeper Still blog or www.lifeway.com/women for one more date and location for Deeper Still: The Event in 2009! WOW--there will be three Deeper Still: The Event in 2009!
Go ahead and contact LifeWay Events Registration at 800-254-2022 or register online for Orlando or Oklahoma City by clicking here!
WOW! 2009 looks like a 100-fold blessing kind of year! Pray that God continues to sow the seed of His Word in many hearts around the world and that each one of us is faithful to Him!
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Meeting the Teachers
This is the week...what most know as school registration or school orientation...I just call it "meeting the teachers." I'm not sure how many of you are in this mode, getting ready for school to start and trying to get a household back on a schedule. Honestly, we are failing...miserably! It is going to be tough, tough, tough next week getting everyone up and off to school so early after we've slept in for months! However, other than the getting up part, I think we are ready!
Our "meeting the teachers" day went well this week. All three of my daughters were excited and more ready for school after seeing the number of friends in their classes and meeting their teachers face-to-face. It doesn't matter what rumors they may have heard in advance, once my daughters actually see the teacher face-to-face he or she doesn't appear so difficult or frightening. Yes, he or she may still give lots of homework or pop quizes, but at least they come with a nice, kind face!
As I've thought about our "meeting the teachers" day for school, I've also thought about our wonderful Bible teachers for Deeper Still: The Event. Kay Arthur, Beth Moore, and Priscilla Shirer all teach and do an amazing job with their writing and DVD driven Bible studies...but there is just something incredible about seeing and hearing them face-to-face at an event.
Although attending a live event may appear intimidating at first, once you get there it is not as difficult or frightening as you once thought. I know many of you attending the Deeper Still in Las Vegas may have never attended a live Christian women's event or heard any of the these Bible teachers live. Seriously, Las Vegas is known for its lights, shows and entertainment, but not the number of Bible teachers or evangelists who come through town!
During the next few weeks before Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas, take some time and get to know the Bible teachers a little better. Check out their websites and information on the ministries they lead in their respective areas of the country.
Click here to learn more about Kay Arthur and Precept Ministries.
Click here to find out more about Living Proof Ministries or Beth Moore, especially read Beth's LPM blog.
Click here to learn more about Priscilla Shirer and Going Beyond Ministries.
And let's not forget Travis Cottrell and the Praise Team! You really need to read his blog and find out more about his music and worship ministry.
More than meeting these fantastic Bible teachers let me encourage you to spend time with the greatest Teacher of all, Jesus. The only way we are truly going to go deeper still is when we spend time and are in daily relationship with Him. So, let's encourage one another as we go deeper still...what is Jesus teaching you these days? How are you personally growing closer to Him? How do you meet the Teacher daily face-to-face?
Monday, August 11, 2008
Olympic Roll Call!
How many of you watched the Opening Ceremonies for the 2008 Olympics on Friday night? It is always amazing to me to see the parade of athletes waving their flags and dressed in traditional costumes or colors representing their nation! I can't help but envision an incredible worship service to come described in Revelation 5:9...
And they sang a new song:
You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals; because You were slaughtered, and You redeemed people for God by Your blood from every tribe and language and people and nation.
Can't you just see the celebration of Olympic-sized proportions?!
As we continue to countdown to Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas, we need to have another roll call. In addition to those who will be attending the Las Vegas event, I would love for all of you to respond and just share something you love about your church, your city, your state, or country!
Let's have an Olympic-sized roll call so we can get a taste of Revelation 5:9 and celebrate the redeemed Christian women of every tribe and language and people and nation who love Jesus and are going deeper still in relationship with Him today!
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
3 Things to Win the Gold
It is time to confess. The first step in recognizing a problem and dealing with it is admitting the problem. The problem for me: I am addicted to the Olympic Games. Yes, I know everyone is watching the Olympics right now, but seriously, I found myself glued to the TV last weekend watching fencing or sabers or whatever they call it. I didn't even know it was an Olympic sport and suddenly I spend an hour watching it. (And honestly I didn't have a clue what they were doing!) But now that I've admitted the problem and confessed it to you, let me tell you why!
One of my favorite things is watching the short bios on the athletes. They basically sum up in about five minutes how the athlete has trained and lived for the last four years. Five minutes seems so short! How can you sum up four years in five minutes? Then I watched the bio on Michael Phelps. WOW! So far this guy is the winningest Olympic athlete ever! He now has five world records in five events at the Beijing Games! And to date he has 11 gold medals, which means he has won more golds than any athlete in history! Michael Phelps is set to swim a few more races and may win even more gold and set more records before the 2008 Olympic Games are over!
What makes him so great? What is the secret of the last four years that helps him achieve such greatness in the Olympics? Three things. Yep, that is it, only three. In the bio he said, "I swim, I sleep, I eat." And it showed him doing those three things...yes, even the sleeping part! Well, you know that bio on Michael Phelps just got me thinking about going deeper still with God. What are the three things that keep me going deeper still? If I had to narrow my time down to three things what would they be?
Group Bible Study? Personal Bible Study? Scripture Memorization? Focused Prayer? Christian Music? Service in my church? Worship? Quiet Time? Missions? Ministry? Community with other Christians? Christian conferences and events? Christian concerts? The list could go on and on and on....
And then if you stick with your top three things for four years like an Olympic athlete, how does one's faith grow? What is the impact upon your relationship with Jesus? How does that level of commitment to God impact your community and the world for Christ?
I don't know about you, but I really want a "medal worthy" faith. And if I'm going to take up my cross daily following Jesus (Luke 9:23-24) why not go for the gold! As the Olympic Games for 2008 continue this week, I am thinking about how to focus and train for an Olympic-sized faith. What spiritual disciplines do I need to strengthen in order to go deeper still with God? What about you? What spiritual muscles need a workout?
Las Vegas Deeper Still gals...how are you preparing for God in the coming weeks before September 5-6? Atlanta or Nashville Deeper Still gals...how are you continuing your focus upon God and going deeper still in relationship with Him?
Thinking of you today my sweet sisters in Christ and praying that we are all reaching forward to God's goal and making every effort to take hold of it...Philippians 3:12-14.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Fabulous Friday
We are finishing the first week of school at my house and all week I've heard about "Fabulous Friday." Everyone in my daughter's second grade class has an opportunity to enjoy "Fabulous Friday" if they get a smiley face sticker each day. What exactly is "Fabulous Friday?" From my understanding it means you get a Popsicle and get to play a game at some point on Fabulous Friday as a reward for good behavior all week.
As I've thought about Fabulous Friday, I think one of the best parts is the anticipation for the big day. Each day as my little second grader thinks and talks about what is to come on Friday, the excitement and momentum builds. Friday turns into something more than the end of the school week. It is more than simply popsicles and an extra game to play during one portion of the day. Friday becomes different from any other day of the week. Friday becomes, well...fabulous!
As we build up to our "Fabulous Friday" on September 5 when we all enter the Thomas and Mack Event Center in Las Vegas for Deeper Still: The Event, I thought I would put up some photos from our guy Rich to help you anticipate the experience at this Christian women's event. I am looking forward to the next three weeks as the excitement and momentum builds for Deeper Still: The Event Las Vegas!
Enjoy this Fabulous Friday and anticipate what is to come in only three weeks!
Monday, August 18, 2008
Don't Forget the Deeper Still Prayer Line
We wanted to remind everyone about the Deeper Still Prayer Line! Even if you only have five or ten minutes to spare at the designated times in the evening, join us for prayer and intercession!
Here is the phone number and directions. The phone line will be open for 2 hours every night during the following times:
5-7 pm Pacific time
6-8 pm Mountain
7-9 pm Central
8-10pm Eastern
There can be up to 96 prayer warriors on the line at the same time from any time zone.
Telephone Number: 712-432-0031
Access Code: 262799#
Instructions:
To reach the Prayer Call In line, dial 712-432-0031, enter 262799 #.
You will be connected to the conference call.
Every caller will be able to talk/pray simultaneously.
The best way to enter into the ongoing prayer is to state your name, the city/state you are calling from and then listen to the direction the prayer is going and wait on the Lord to direct your prayer.
Although the line is open for two hours, you may pray for 1 minute or up to two hours on the line.
Additional features are available while on the line by using the following keys:
*3 Exit - exit the conference call
*4 Instructions - conference instructions
*6 Mute/Un-mute - caller controlled muting
Frequently asked questions:
What are the costs involved in a Prayer Conference Call?
Only normal long distance charges by each caller's carrier apply.
There will be no bill or charges from Greater Calling for this service.
How many callers can be in a single conference?
96 caller maximum in each conference with no required minimum number.
Can I use a calling card to call in for the Prayer Call?
Yes. You may also use 10-10-### services to connect at favorable rates.
Can international callers participate?
Basically, anyone who can dial a US telephone number should be able to dial a Prayer Call number.
Is this a VoIP service or an Internet service using my computer?
No, this is a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) conferencing service that utilizes your regular telephone.
We appreciate your participation in praying for this conference. May God continue to bless your life as you continue to serve His people.
Many Blessings,
The Steering Team
Deeper Still Las Vegas
And don't forget to comment on the blog and let us know your experience on the prayer line!
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Deep Roots
When we moved into our home in January 2002 everything outside in the yard was dormant or dead. As spring unleashed its beauty, we were thankful we had moved into a home previously owned by a couple from the UK who really knew their gardening. We had all kinds of flowers and plants...an English garden! Just what I always wanted! It didn't matter that we didn't know what anything was or how to tend it--we were just happy to enjoy the beauty!
One of the best surprises was an apple tree planted right next to the deck. It was beautiful in the spring with its blossoms and incredible during the late summer as we enjoyed, picked, and ate fresh apples for months! I remember having so many apples that first year. We gave bag after bag of apples away to neighbors and friends. Seriously, how many apples can a family of five eat...especially when the tree produces several HUNDRED apples...I'm not kidding!
We enjoyed our harvest for another year and then a tornado came through our city. If you can imagine it...in the high winds the tree was totally blown on its side, but the roots were still in the ground. So, my husband, Mr. Save Everything or Mr. Pack Rat (which ever title applies), used a truck and rope to pull the apple tree back up into its standing position. He braced the tree with some sturdy two-by-fours; he watered it, fertilized it, pruned it and took extra care of this tree. That August there were no apples on the tree...zero. I guess the trauma from the tornado had done its damage. My husband continued to baby the tree hoping for a better harvest the following year. The next year the once flourishing apple tree produced about a dozen apples. This went on for another year and another. At one point we just wondered if the trauma was too much...should we just chop it down.
But how could we give up after all these years? We waited and waited...and now we have more apples than ever before. This year the apple blossoms were more than we could count. We actually didn't have this many apples the first year we moved into the house!
I wonder how many of us have deep roots like this apple tree except we are clinging to God. When the tornados of life hit and we are totally blown down those roots hold fast to the Only One who can resurrect the dead. It may take years, but slowly He provides all that we need to produce beauty and fruit in life again.
How many of you just experience devasting loss in your life and wonder if you will ever "be alive" again?
How many of you have gone through trauma over the last several years and are just now beginning to bear fruit again?
Praying and trusting God to bring you through the lean and difficult years. Know that the LifeWay Women's Event Team wants Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas to be the turning point...when you flourish in God's Word and worship...and begin to bear fruit again for Christ.
Can't wait to see you at Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas as we dig deeper into God's Word, strengthen our roots in Christ as our Savior and Lord, and go deeper still with God in worship and in life...
Monday, August 25, 2008
Counting Down to Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas!
That's right! It is less than two weeks until we meet together in Las Vegas for Deeper Still: The Event with Bible teachers Beth Moore, Priscilla Shirer, and Kay Arthur! And if you can believe it...there are still tickets available!
If you are already planning to go and have your ticket, you may want to share this ticket information with other women in your Bible study group or church...or even invite a friend who does not have a personal, saving relationship with Jesus Christ! You may have some friends who are turned off and are now tuned out from God by bad church experiences. What a great opportunity to let an unbeliever see real, authentic Christians in action worshiping God and studying His word! Let them see it is not about a religion but a relationship with a real and personal God!
Here is how you can get your ticket or an extra ticket for a friend to Deeper Still: The Event Las Vegas.
Click here to register online for Deeper Still: The Event Las Vegas or call LifeWay Events Registration at 800-254-2022.
It is going to be a fantastic weekend as we go deeper still with God. Until we all meet in Las Vegas, don't forget to join us on the Deeper Still Las Vegas Prayer Line open nightly. Click here to find out more about this Prayer Line and how you can join in!
Can't wait to see you live in Las Vegas on September 5th! Who has her ticket and is ready to GO?!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
10 Things
Miley Cyrus may sing about "7 Things" but we have 10 Things to talk about on the 10th day as we countdown to Deeper Still: The Event Las Vegas! Yes, can you believe it! Only 10 more days!
Here is a quick "Top Ten" list of things to do or what you may want to pack for Deeper Still: The Event.
1. Bible, pen and/or highlighter. In all the packing and repacking, our Bible is sometimes what we forget! You will receive a Deeper Still Listening Guide when you come through the doors on Friday night. It has plenty of space to take notes.
2. Cell phone AND charger. Unless you have a great phone, you will probably need to charge your phone on Friday night. You will want you phone working on Saturday for an all day event. Before the event begins, exchange phone numbers with several in your group and program the numbers into your phone.
3. Any medicines you may need. On Saturday have them with you in case you don't go back to your room or your car. You never know how your plans might change especially if you are with a group.
4. Cash! Make sure you have a little cash on hand for any tips with luggage handlers at airports and hotels. Also, cash is sometimes easier for the concessions at the arena or street vendors in downtown areas. You also need cash for vending machines in the hotels for those late night snacks!
5. Any directions and/or confirmation numbers for hotels, the Thomas and Mack Event Center in Las Vegas, or anywhere else you may travel. Take time in the next 10 days to review your travel plan and maps.
6. A light sweater or jacket just in case the arena is cool.
7. Comfortable shoes for walking and climbing stairs. Depending upon where you are staying you may walk to and from the arena.
8. Comfy pajamas and your clothes needed for two days as you cram as much as possible into those two days!
9. The wristband which serves as your ticket for both days of Deeper Still: The Event Las Vegas. This wristband came with your confirmation letter from LifeWay Events Registration Department.
10. An open heart and mind ready to hear God speak a word of truth for your life!
We only named 10 things. What other things have you thought of to bring to Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas?
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Your Story Becomes HIS Story
Aren't we always looking for something new? Something that will give us a fresh look...new clothes, new shoes, new hairstyle, or maybe a new attitude! The same is true for Deeper Still: The Event! We want a fresh perspective--we want to see your story become HIS Story!
We want God to bring a fresh word through Beth, Kay, and Priscilla. And we want your worship experience as Travis and the Praise team lead us to be fresh and alive in Christ. So, you need to know we have some new things planned for Deeper Still in Las Vegas!
One BIG thing you need to look for when you arrive Friday evening are four HUGE boards set in different places on the concourse. Remember when you were growing up and got in trouble if you wrote or colored on the walls? Well, throw out those rules! WE WANT YOU TO WRITE ON THESE FOUR BOARDS! Does that sound fun or what!
"What am I supposed to write on these boards?" you may be asking. Well, ask yourself these questions:
What do I hope God will do in my life through this Christian women's event?
What are my dreams as I go deeper still with God?
What is one thing I need to release to God this weekend?
We want these "story" boards to reflect and record a small portion of your story and how you hope and pray your story becomes HIS Story at Deeper Still: The Event.
So, as you reflect on the questions above, what will you write? What is something you hope turns from your story to HIS Story at Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas?
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Submit YOUR Questions!
That's right...YOU GET TO ASK THE QUESTIONS for the Deeper Still Las Vegas Panel Discussion! Even if you will not be attending the event in Las Vegas you can submit your questions here on the blog!
I have to admit it is probably my favorite session of the entire weekend. It is like watching a great talk show with three of your favorite people! There are incredible words of wisdom and biblical truth, but also LOTS of laughs.
As I looked back at some of the questions from Nashville and Atlanta Deeper Still Events...and thought about the answers our three wonderful sisters gave...I laughed all over again! Kay, Beth, and Priscilla covered everything from "What is your favorite lipstick color?" to "How do you balance life and ministry?" Their answers are honest and sometimes hilarious!
Click here to link back and read some of the Nashville Panel Discussion questions and answers on the blog!
Click here to read questions that were submitted for the Atlanta Deeper Still Panel Discussion.
I'm sure you Deeper Still bloggers can come up with even more great questions to make the Las Vegas Panel Discussion one we will never forget!!!
So, start submitting your questions NOW! I love this and can't wait to see what you come up with--this is going to be soooo fun!
Friday, August 29, 2008
ONLY ONE WEEK!
In one week we will see the big sign that says...
Do you sense the excitement and anticipation building as we prepare for Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas?
We can't wait to see you there! Here are few reminders as we head into Labor Day weekend and this last week before Deeper Still: The Event.
If you still need tickets or know someone who needs to purchase a ticket, click here to connect to the Deeper Still women's page and LifeWay's Events Registration where you can buy a ticket online or call 800-254-2022.
Click here to review items you may need or may want to pack for Deeper Still: The Event.
And don't forget to spend time this weekend submitting your questions for the live panel discussion with Beth Moore, Kay Arthur, and Priscilla Shirer on Saturday afternoon at Deeper Still!
More than anything else...please join us in prayer for Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas. The prayer line is still open nightly. Click here to find out how you can connect with others across the country as we join together to prayer for Deeper Still: The Event and what God is going to do September 5-6 in Las Vegas.
One week and counting down! Can't wait to see you in Fabulous Las Vegas!
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
A Note from Your Event Coordinator
Greetings Friends,
I can hardly contain my excitement about being with you this weekend! Kay, Beth, Priscilla, Travis and the whole event team are in focused prayer for what will take place during our days with you at The Thomas and Mack Center. God is up to really BIG things! We are confident in that.
There are a couple of things I want to remind you of as you get ready to attend the event. Please forward this letter on to others you know who are attending the event but may not be following the Deeper Still blog or receiving emails from us.
- Doors will open at 6:00 PM on Friday night. Please use good judgment about lining up early with 100 + temperatures.
- Concessions and Bookstore will be open before the event starts, during breaks etc.
- Box lunches will be pre-sold on Friday beginning at 4:00 PM outside the main entrance of the arena. Lunch cost is $12.00 and will include a Turkey sandwich, chips, fruit and bottled water. Cash and credit cards will be accepted. You'll be given a voucher to redeem your lunch on Saturday at the lunch break. We suggest you leave someone in line and go purchase for your group. Box lunch sales will be moved inside to the concourse near the main entrance once doors open. Watch the media slides or ask a volunteer for directions.
- Read all the information on your registration material in the next few days
- Any ticket, registration or will call needs will be served at the Will Call area near the main entrance. There will be tickets available at the door!
- Make sure you are in your seat by about 6:45 PM. You won't want to miss the new opening of the event at 6:58 PM. It's a big surprise!!!
- Watch for the Story Boards on the concourse. It's a great chance for you to express why God brought you to Deeper Still. Watch the media slides for more information about the these.
- Things to bring with you are: your wristband around your right wrist, your Bible, some cash, a light jacket or sweater, directions and cell phone.
- Other great things to bring with you are....smiles, patience, love in your heart, all your hurts and disappointments, great joy, everything about who you are.
- Lines will be long for everything from the restrooms to the concessions and bookstore. Use your time in line to make a fun connection with a few people that you don't know and share some encouragement in the Lord.
For those of you who will not be joining us in Las Vegas, catch up with all the latest on what's happening, including live coverage at the event by staying connected to the Deeper Still Blog!
I can't wait to see each one of you!!!
Betsy
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Feeding 5,000
Today the Production Team for Deeper Still: The Event travel and begin their set up in Las Vegas! If I wasn't so excited about the weekend I would probably fall down in a heap! The last few days have brought an overwhelming sense of...how do I even begin to describe it? In mere words it might be, "What are we doing?! A Christian women's event in Las Vegas! You've got to be kidding me!!!"
And how do I describe the emotions and feelings involved? It is similar to feeling you get when you are already on the roller coaster and you are climbing and climbing and climbing...and then you start thinking about the huge drop to come...it hasn't happened yet, but you know it is going to take your breath away.
I guess that sums up where I am today...almost to the top before the plunge...excited and scared all at the same time! You may think we get accustomed to these feelings before a large event like Deeper Still, but so far they are not going away for me! It is in these last few days before a huge Christian women's event that I need to hear a special word from the Lord. Not that I don't need that everyday, but especially on these days I need to know HE is going before me and HE has a great plan for ALL the women attending including me.
My time in God's Word yesterday was not a happy day. I'm reading through Matthew and yesterday John the Baptist was beheaded. A man who was obedient to God, preparing the way for the Messiah, doing all that God asked of him and then CHOP! Not an encouraging word for the day.
But isn't it just like God to bring just the right Word at just the right time. Today was Matthew14:13-21--Feeding the 5,000! What a wonderful word of promise for today--for me, for our Lifeway team, for our platform--Kay Arthur, Beth Moore, Priscilla Shirer, Travis Cottrell and the praise team, and for the women attending Deeper Still in Las Vegas in two days. The Christian women in Las Vegas and our LifeWay team may feel like we only have a handful of fish and some rolls to share with a city of starving people--hungry for something more than the glitz, the glamour, and the sin associated with Las Vegas. Well, our Lord Jesus does miracles! And He can do things way bigger and brighter than Vegas!
That is what I am counting on as we head to Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas this weekend--our God who brings just the right Word at just the right time in a miraculous way! And the best part...when the lights fade, when the event is over...there are still 12 baskets full of food (Matt. 14:20). No one will leave hungry and there will be plenty of leftovers for later!
Who is coming to Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas hungry? Who, besides me, needs to hear a miraculous word from God meant for this time and season of life? Who is ready to come, be filled, and carry home baskets full of God's Word to ponder?
Friday, September 5, 2008
LIVE FROM LAS VEGAS!!!
FINALLY!!!
Yes, we are finally in fabulous Las Vegas for Deeper Still: The Event with Kay Arthur, Beth Moore, Priscilla Shirer, Travis Cottrell and the Praise Team! Sorry we were not online yesterday during traveling and set up. However, now we are ready to keep you up to the minute on the happenings at Deeper Still: The Event!
One thing you need to know...WE ARE ON PACIFIC STANDARD TIME IN LAS VEGAS! If you are following the live blog from the East Coast...it is going to be a late night! (However, my computer is set on CST, but don't let that confuse you on the post times)
Just to fill you in--the last 24 hours have been busy! The Production and Event teams have set up and prayed over the arena. Currently we have the Las Vegas Prayer Team prayer walking the arena. This steering team is a wonderful group of ladies from different churches all over Las Vegas. You need to know they are praying over every seat in this arena! I am headed off to join them as they pray around the concourse of the arena. I'll keep you updated as the day progresses! We are so blessed to have you join us live via the Deeper Still blog!
The Grand Canyon
Yesterday was a busy travel day as our team left Nashville and flew to Las Vegas. Praise God it was a pretty uneventful day. No delays, no lost luggage, no problems with rental vans, and no problems with set up at the arena. Did I say PRAISE GOD?! Still, yesterday was a day I will never forget.
At the end of our flight the pilot announced to the passengers that if we would look out the right side of the plane we would see the Grand Canyon. Guess who was sitting in a window seat on the right side of the plane? Yes me! And what a sight! I'm not sure if I'd ever seen the Grand Canyon from that perspective. I've only seen the Grand Canyon a few times in my life and always from ground level. Thinking about it even now...I am overwhelmed by the greatness of our Creator.
My perspective of Deeper Still: The Event also changed in those moments as I looked down upon the Grand Canyon. To look at the Grand Canyon from a higher perspective, to see the bigger picture--it was one of those moments when you realize how small we are, how big He is, and it makes the love of Christ even more meaningful. Amazing...Jesus would bridge the Grand Canyon between God the Father and us...even you...even me.
It is so good to know, as we complete sound checks and final details at the arena in Las Vegas, that God is bigger and He is involved from a higher perspective.
Las Vegas 101!
And that doesn't mean a college course number 101...it means at 6:00 pm it is 101 degrees in Las Vegas! The last hour has been a frenzy of activity! Volunteers and Encouragers arrived for training and orientation for their responsibilities during Deeper Still at 5:00 pm. What an incredible group of godly women! They are so excited about what God is doing in the lives and hearts of women in this area! Their anticipation for what the weekend holds is contagious!
Because of the extreme heat we opened the doors a little early to a flood of anxious women. You can sense their excitement as they chatter with their friends and sisters in the faith sitting around them!
I am going to ask all of you joining us via the Deeper Still blog to partner with us in prayer this weekend. The Encouragers are specifically praying 2 Peter 1:2-3 over the women attending Deeper Still Las Vegas...
May grace and peace be multiplied to you through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. For His divine power has given us everything required for life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness.
2 Peter 1:2-3 (HCSB)
Trusting Him to multiply the fish and loaves we bring into a miraculous feeding for over 5,700 women at Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas!
6:58 pm
The opening media for Deeper Still: The Event will take your breath away! The images of this beginning...after "climbing the mountain" preparing for Deeper Still for months...we have reached the peak!
The music begins and the lights go down. The arena, now transformed into a sanctuary, is silent as a narrative (written by Travis Cottrell) is read by a lone voice (Tammy, one of the Praise Team members).
The seed, the Word of God, is planted for this weekend as we hear about the promise of the harvest to come. WE DESIRE THE HARVEST! WE DESIRE MORE FRUIT!
The narrative ends with "DIG....DEEPER STILL" as a roar goes up from the crowd of women who have been anxiously awaiting this time of praise and worship. And so we begin our journey of going deeper still this weekend praising and worshiping our Savior and Lord Jesus Christ!
Friday Night in Vegas!
These photos by our favorite event photographer Rich Kalonick will give you a glimpse into our worship experience at Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas. Praying you will worship our great God as you view these amazing photos!
Saturday, September 6, 2008
A Short Night!
Good Morning Sisters!
We are back live from Las Vegas at Deeper Still: The Event! The evening ended too quickly for us! Thought you might like this photo taken by Rich of our three amazing Bible teachers for Deeper Still: The Event. This photo was taken before Priscilla brought a message from God's Word as Kay and Beth blessed and prayed over our sweet sister.
Don't you just love to see these three sisters together! Beth Moore, Priscilla Shirer, and Kay Arthur represent three different generations of women and under God's authority and leadership build bridges between those generations. It reminds me of Psalm 90:1...
Lord, YOU have been our refuge in every generation. Psalm 90:1 (HCSB)
It seems only fitting to begin this morning with what Priscilla quoted to end last night, "He Is." These lyrics are from incredible songwriters Aaron Jeoffrey, a father-son duo.
He Is
In Genesis, He's the breath of life
In Exodus, He is the Passover Lamb
In Leviticus, He's our high priest
In Numbers, the fire by night
Deuteronomy, He's Israel's Guide
Joshua, He's salvation's choice
Judges, He's Israel's Guard
In Ruth, the kinsmen's redeemer
1st and 2nd Samuel, our trusted prophet
In Kings and Chronicles He is Sovereign
In Ezra, He's the true and faithful scribe
In Nehemiah, the re-builder of broken walls and lives
In Esther, He's Mordecai's courage
In Job, the timeless redeemer
In Psalms He is our morning song
In Proverbs, He is our wisdom
Ecclesiastes, He's the time and season
In Song of Solomon, He is the lover's dream
In Isaiah He is Prince of Peace
In Jeremiah, the weeping prophet
Lamentations, the cry for Israel
Ezekiel, the call from sin
Daniel, the stranger in the fire
Hosea, the forever faithful
Joel, the spirit's power
Amos, the strong-arms that carry
Obadiah, the Lord our Savior
Jonah, the great missionary
Micah, the promise of peace
Nahum, our strength and shield
In Habakkuk and Zephaniah, He's brings revival
In Haggai He restores that which was lost
IN Zachariah, He's our fountain
And in Malachi, He's the son of righteousness rising with healing in His wings
AND THAT'S JUST THE OLD TESTAMENT
In Matthew Mark Luke and John, He is God and Messiah
In the spirit filled book of Acts, He is the reigning fire from Heaven
In Romans, He is the grace of God
Corinthians, the power of love
Galatians, freedom from the curse of sin
Ephesians, our glorious treasure
Philippians, the servant's heart
Colossians, He's God and the trinity
Thessalonians, our calling King
In Timothy, Titus and Philemon, He's our mediator and our faithful pastor
In Hebrews, the everlasting courage
In James, the one who heals the sick
In 1st and 2nd Peter, our faithful shepherd
In John and Jude, He's the lover coming for His bride
AND in the Revelation, in the very end, when it's all over, said and done, when time is NO MORE. He is and will always be the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, Prince of Peace, son of Man, Lamb of God, The Great I am, Alpha and Omega, God and Savior He is Jesus Christ the Lord HE IS EVERYTHING THAT YOU NEED!
He is everything that we need and He is our refuge in every generation!
Thank you for joining us today on the blog as we continue to go deeper still!
One Thing God Won't Say...
As Travis Cottrell and the Praise Team are leading us in worship this morning at Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas, there is a great theme and tone to the morning. The crowd of women are loud and clapping and then they are silent and prayerful...but all in an attitude of focused reverence and worship.
Travis said, "I know there is at least one thing God won't say to us in heaven. God is never going to tell us that we worshiped Him too much."
And so the worship of our Great God continues through music and the Word this morning...
Praying you worship HIM today in whatever you do and wherever you go.
Making God's Word Priority
As we continue Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas this morning, our focus is on making God's Word priority. From the song "In the First Light" from Travis Cottrell's Christmas CD, Ring the Bells, (coming out October 7th) God's Word is priority.
Kay continued the theme that included making God's Word priority in our personal lives, our churches, our communities, and our country. Kay Arthur challenges us to have an impact upon others and the nations for God's glory as we keep our focus on God's Word and His ways.
Kay speaks truth as she leads the women in Las Vegas at Deeper Still to truly go deeper still in their relationship with their Savior.
In the midst of a serious, prophetic word from God, Kay Arthur caused the women to laugh.
..and cry.
And so as we dismiss for lunch these are the questions--
Will you make the Word of God priority?
Will you hold Truth up before this generation?
Deeper Still Continues in Las Vegas!
Saturday morning fun....
Saturday morning praise...
Saturday morning worship...
Saturday morning baby!!!
Thanks for the great photos Rich!
Raising Hands at Deeper Still Las Vegas
LifeWay is so honored and thankful to serve the Lord and you through this amazing Christian women's event called Deeper Still.These images are a small reflection of the praise and worship at Deeper Still: The Event in Las Vegas this weekend. We hope they lead you to worship our Savior Jesus and encourage you to dig deeper still into God's Word and in your relationship with Him.
Thanks for experiencing Deeper Still via the blog this weekend.
Blessings!
Monday, September 8, 2008
Share YOUR Deeper Still Testimony
Thanks to so many of you who are already sharing your testimonies of the weekend! It is such a blessing to hear specifically how God worked and is still working in your hearts and lives!
One of my experiences or testimonies of the weekend was the incredible privilege to work with the prayer team from the Las Vegas Steering Committee. The LifeWay team would like to say a BIG thank you to our Las Vegas City Coordinators and their steering committee. The prayer team (that I got to work with) planned numerous opportunities for the women of Las Vegas and beyond to participate and join together to undergird this event in prayer. In addition to local prayer times in Las Vegas, they maintained a nightly prayer line for 40 days prior to the event! It was an honor to pray with this team on Friday morning before Deeper Still: The Event in the arena! I can say without hesitation that they literally prayed over EVERY seat in that place! I know God heard those prayers and HE answered in miraculous ways!
So--THANK YOU LAS VEGAS CITY COORDINATORS AND STEERING COMMITTEE! We could never do one of these large events without teams like you...and we don't want to! It is such a pleasure every time we get to minister with godly women like you across the country.
As I've thought about the messages, the worship, the altar calls, the storyboards from the weekend at Deeper Still, I keep wondering how God spoke to you. How did He answer a prayer? How did He take your story and make it HIS Story?
We would love to hear your testimony. What did God do in your life and heart this weekend?
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Las Vegas Deeper Still Video Recap!
Thank you sisters for all the wonderful testimonies you are sharing with us! We give God all the glory! Hope this video help you remember the weekend at Deeper Still and how God moved in your heart in specific ways. Thanks Rich Kalonick for capturing images that reflect what we can never express in words!