Set in the breath-taking mountain town of Aspen, our church conference brought together believers seeking renewal, healing, and deeper faith. Aspen, known for its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere, provided the perfect setting for spiritual reflection and connection with God. As the snow-capped peaks surrounded us, we were reminded of the majesty of our Creator and the transformative power of His Spirit.

Many believers begin their faith journey in the Spirit but later seek to be perfected by their own efforts. This pattern is seen even in church leaders who, after years of successful ministry, return to formal education in search of validation. While education is valuable, spiritual growth and effectiveness are not measured by degrees but by the power of God working through us. The Spirit’s guidance is essential, yet too often, people seek human recognition rather than divine approval.

Hezekiah’s story in 2 Kings 20:1-6 illustrates the power of prayer. Facing death, he turned to God, pleading for mercy. Before Isaiah even left the palace, God answered, granting Hezekiah fifteen more years of life. This account reminds us that God hears and responds to sincere, heartfelt prayers.

Daniel 12:2 speaks of two resurrections—one unto life and another to shame. These will occur at different times, reinforcing the reality of eternal consequences. Our focus should not be solely on earthly accomplishments but on the spiritual truths revealed to us by the Holy Spirit. Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 2:10-11 that God’s wisdom is beyond human understanding, and only through the Spirit can we comprehend the deeper things of God. Just as a person alone knows their own heart, so only God’s Spirit knows the depths of His plans.

Contrary to common misconceptions, experiencing the Spirit’s presence does not always involve dramatic manifestations. The Spirit moves naturally, often in ways that seem ordinary. People sometimes expect a supernatural sensation, but the Spirit works in us through wisdom, discernment, and love.

Scripture warns that lawlessness is already at work (2 Thessalonians 2:7-8). The world grows darker, but believers are called to be filled with the Spirit, allowing rivers of living water to flow from their lives. This overflow of the Spirit enables us to live transformed lives and minister effectively to others. When we yield to God, He brings us closer to the ideal version of ourselves rather than lowering His standards to fit our weaknesses.

Call to Maturity

The Aspen Church Conference was not just about hearing the Word but also about living it. Faith is not passive; it requires action. Jesus demonstrated this when He forgave the woman caught in adultery (John 8). The Pharisees sought condemnation, but Jesus extended mercy and restoration. He did not ignore her sin, but He offered a path forward: “Neither do I condemn thee; go and sin no more.” True faith leads to transformation, not just intellectual agreement.

Believers are called to serve others through the gift of helps. Acts of service—whether visiting the sick, providing meals, or assisting the less fortunate—demonstrate the love of Christ. The Spirit moves through practical love, not just in dramatic spiritual experiences.

Lot’s rescue from Sodom (Luke 17, 2 Peter 2) illustrates God’s ability to deliver the righteous while reserving judgment for the wicked. This principle applies today. Though the world is increasingly corrupt, God protects and guides His people.

Church history reveals a cycle of spiritual decline. Revelation 17-18 describes the fall of religious and commercial Babylon, symbolic of the world’s systems opposed to God. Even within the church, lukewarmness is a danger. Many profess faith but deny God through their actions (Titus 1:16).

Maturity in Christ is essential. The word “perfect” in Scripture often means “mature” or “fully developed.” Paul urged believers to grow in their faith, ensuring that their lives reflect their testimony (1 Timothy 4:12, Acts 20:18-35). The Christian life is not about perfection but about progress—becoming more like Christ each day.

Scripture provides the foundation for spiritual growth. Experiences alone cannot sustain faith; only God’s Word can provide lasting strength. Just as physical health depends on proper nutrition, spiritual health requires feeding on Scripture. Without it, believers become weak and vulnerable.

Throughout the conference, attendees shared testimonies of God’s faithfulness. Many were reminded of the privilege of investing in God’s kingdom, not just through financial giving but through their time, talents, and energy. Malachi 3:10 reminds us that giving is not merely an obligation but a privilege. When we trust God with our resources, He provides abundantly.

Aspen, with its majestic mountains and peaceful environment, served as a beautiful backdrop for this conference on healing and redemption. As we left the conference, we carried with us a renewed commitment to faith in action, trusting that God’s work in us would continue to bear fruit in our communities and beyond.