As you contemplate whether or not the Lord would have you attend the upcoming Impact conference or as you begin inviting your peers to join you at the conference, we want to prepare you for the barriers you will face. Here are eight common barriers we have seen delay or completely stop someone’s desire to attend the Impact conference and some solutions to get you pass the barriers.
1. “I don’t have enough money to go.”
It’s obvious that the cost of the conference is an essential part of getting to the conference. You need to first consider whether or not you really do want to go. We can often times create excuses that will help get us out of a situation we might see as difficult or help eliminate the pressure of making a decision we do not want to make. Determine if you want to go, and if so put all the effort in that it will take to raise the money to pay for the conference!
There are multiple ways to get the money to go. Consider asking your parents and relatives for money as a birthday or Christmas present. You could also raise money for the conference from your church and other interested people.
Also, consider saving money as a way to gather the funds to pay for the conference. During the next several months, will you spend a significant amount of money for non-essential items such as junk food, snacks or video games? If so, try saving that money instead and setting it aside for the conference. Save a certain amount of money each week for the conference. For example: $11.00 per week for seven weeks is more than enough to cover your $75 deposit by the early bird deadline.
Remember that with God, money is never the issue. God can supply the money even if we can’t see how He will do it. (Psalm 50:10)
2. “I have to work.”
Ask your boss if you can have the week off and be sure to explain why. People can be more understanding than you think if you are upfront and honest with them. Constantly pray that your boss will allow you to get off. (Proverbs 21:1, Nehemiah 1:11) Even if it is a new job, you can at least ask to get time off.
3. ”I’m not sure I will be involved in Impact next semester.”
Even if you aren’t planning to be involved with your campuses Impact chapter next semester, the conference can be a time of growth, spiritual enrichment, fellowship, and increased vision as to God’s plan for your life. This is something we can all use regardless of the ministry that we affiliate with. It also may be able to use the conference as a way to firm up your decision as to whether or not you should be involved as you learn more about the Impact Movement.
4. “I don’t know anyone.”
It’s true that knowing a few people that are attending the conference can be huge. So, bring some of your friends!
Also, you will be surprised how soon you get to know people once you arrive at the conference. The conference has a natural sense of community, which can only be described by those who have attended a conference themselves.
5. “I have friends coming to visit me during that time.”
Invite your friends to come to the conference with you. You will still have plenty of time to hang out together and explore a new city in addition to growing spiritually. You could also ask your friends to come either a week earlier or a week later.
6. “I don’t want to go.”
Well, thanks for your honesty. What are your reasons for not wanting to go? Maybe, some of your reasons for not wanting to go have been answered so far. Continue to pray about it and determine the heart of your hesitation to attending the Impact conference.
7. “My parents won’t let me go.”
Do you really want to go? Have you asked your parents yet? Ask your parents in a kind, respectful, persuasive manner. Show them the conference brochure. Give them the letters for parents. Let them browse the website. www.impactmovement.com Once you show them these things and express to them your desire to attend the conference and learn more about Jesus Christ, your parents will come around to the idea of you attending the conference.
8. “I have something going on at church.”
Talk with your pastor about the decision. Determine the nature of the function and weigh its benefits with those of the Impact conference. Remember that this conference is designed for college students. It will help you grow in your Christian faith and encourage you to share your faith with other college students.
Were some of the hesitations you were feeling expressed in these barriers? Let us know. Please comment your thoughts and past conference experiences.
