Abraham Lincoln once said, “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” 

Thrive volunteers are taking time to “sharpen their axes,” physically and spiritually, these first couple of days on-site, in preparation for ministering to global servants-in-Christ this week.

Physically, volunteers are eagerly packing gift bags, practicing self-care services such as pedicures and counseling, and finalizing logistics. We are also taking intentional time to rest and adjust to higher altitude levels here in the Rockies. Being “sharp” physically allows for a greater capacity to give! 

One of the primary goals of Thrive is to remind women of their true identity as beloved daughters of the King. No one can fully facilitate encouragement for others when they are “dull” in Truth themselves. Being “sharp” spiritually permits the Spirit to work with greater eternal impact in attendees’ lives. In turn, we pray that they leave better enabled to “sharpen” the many souls they touch worldwide!

A long-time Bible teacher and veteran volunteer notes that pre-retreat teambuilding activities are crucial for unifying volunteers in our common mission and for “sharpening” hearts toward humility and rest before God. Each leaves behind a vast assortment of family circumstances, burdens, joys, and life experiences. But as volunteers come together over shared meals and corporate prayer, we are bonded across those differences. This creates a unified, loving atmosphere with a heavenward focus.

When speaking of the extended personal prayer time that was organized for us, a first-time volunteer admitted her initial apprehensiveness about how to “do it well.” But by the end, her Heavenly Father spoke to specific areas that required surrender, and she was moved to tears in the sweetness of His presence. She left free, grounded, and ready to share encouragement with others.

Her axe is sharp!