Mike Edmisten Follower of Jesus. Husband of Nicki. Father of Ryan & Brock. Communicator of the Word.

Unpacking Unleash

Several  members of our team attended the Unleash Conference last week.  This one-day conference is held every spring at NewSpring Church in Anderson, SC.  It has become a staple in my yearly calendar.  I don't ask, "Am I going to Unleash?" I ask, "When is Unleash?"

Honestly, this conference went to "a whole nutha level" this year.  It was such a motivating, unifying force for our team.  We came back brimming over with passion and vision for our church.  ACC, I promise that you'll see it more and more in the coming weeks and months.

I'll post some Unleash "quick hits" tomorrow.  For now, here are the big things that God drilled into my mind, heart, and spirit last week.

• Our team is the best. I wouldn't trade them for anyone or anything. They've got my back. They would take a bullet for me. And I would return the favor.
• I have no choice but to pursue the vision that God has laid out for us. Other avenues might appear easier, but it would be sinful to pursue anything but God's vision for our church. And that vision is HUGE!
• As a pastor, I can't allow anything to distract me from Jesus. And believe me…there are PLENTY of distractions in ministry.  I've got to say "no" to good things so I can say "yes" to God things.
• Leadership requires huge sacrifice. We love the idea of progress, but not the idea of sacrifice.  You can't have one without the other.  And when it comes to sacrifice, leaders go first.
• Ministry hurts, but great players play hurt. I can't let the wounds keep me from pursuing the ministry that God has laid before me.
• God loves me intensely, deeply, and completely. I know it sounds weird for a pastor to admit this, but I needed this reminder.  God doesn't love me for my ministry.  He doesn't love me for my preaching.  He doesn't love me for my leadership.  God loves me for me. And that blows my mind!