Bloom speaker challenges women to commit to God’s purpose

SAN ANTONIO—Christian women find the power to face adversity when they dedicate their lives to a purpose greater than themselves, participants at the Bloom Conference learned.

“You are powerful” was the theme and the message for young professional women who attended the conference at Agape Baptist Church in San Antonio, sponsored by  Unión Femenil Misionera of Texas.

Keynote speaker Ingrid Salamanca, director of promotions for First Baptist Church in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., encouraged women to commit their lives to serving God.

Societal issues are more than enough to distract Christians, but they should not overshadow God’s purpose, she said.

While women may feel overwhelmed by difficult circumstances, Salamanca encouraged them to know more of God so they can be assured his design will prevail.

“Know you are not an accident,” she said. “You were made with a purpose.”

Responsibility accompanies God’s calling, Salamanca added.

“We have to put aside the excuses and just say yes to the purpose of God,” she said.

When a person’s life imitates the life of Christ, then others will see the light of Christ in them, Salamanca asserted.

“Be intentional in seeking God’s purpose for your life,” she said. “And through the Holy Spirit, God will guide you.”

When problems and difficulties come, Christians should see them as an opportunity to grow closer in God, she urged.

“We are like sequoia seeds, which are only released from the cone through forest fires,” Salamanca said. “Sequoia seeds begin to take nutrients from the burnt ground and are exposed to light thanks to the space the fire cleared.”

In the midst of hurt and challenges, she reminded women to hold on to grace and joy instead of anger or resentment.

“Whatever your situation is, do not give up,” Salamanca said. “Whether you believe it or not, you have world-changing capabilities.”

The Bible offers examples of what must be done when difficulties arise, she said.

“We are here to be disciples of Christ, which means we can’t expect everything to be easy” she added. “Then you will see your pain and blessings will bless others.”