I attended the "Gifted to Lead" leadership forum a couple of weeks ago and I've had it on my "task list" to go back through my notes. I'm finally going to do just that! So, this post is definitely more about me just sifting through my notes, pulling out the things that stood out to me, and "digesting" it.

Here goes...

--Captivated by God's Love: Nancy Beech noted that what influenced her the most as she attended her youth group growing up was that the Pastor was 'captivated by the love of God.'

--Name the Gifts we see: Nancy Ortberg encouraged us that as we see gifts and abilities of those around us we need to tell that person what we see. Isn't it eye-opening when others tell you the things they see in you? It's so easy to not see myself clearly (the positives and negatives)

--Leaders must be resilient and humble; obstacles are inevitable.

--"Intersect your gifts with this broken and wounded world."

--Listen well and love deeply.

--Let go of your weaknesses; hold on to the strengths. Recognize how God has uniquely made me and partner with Him in that. I've had a tendency to want certain gifts, rather than ask God, "How have you made me? How would you like me to use those strengths, gifts, and abilities for you, Lord?" The ability to see myself clearly is very important.

--Something that Nancy Ortberg did over and over again as she answered questions from the audience was have this keen ability to see clearly the true nature of the question and then speak boldly and truthfully where most people would give the "nice answer" or sugar-coated one. She still spoke with tact and love, but was able to "cut to the chase." This is an area I'd like to grow in for sure!!

--"Activate all gifts, elevate none." I loved hearing this!!

--Default to genuine, authentic you. Don't feel the pressure to be someone you're not.

Es todo!