446. Going to NASCON? Listen to This First | From the Archives

FROM THE ARCHIVES: With NASCON26 happening in Baltimore this weekend, we’re resurfacing one of Rob and Pam Skinner’s most practical episodes on how to make the most of a Christian conference. Originally recorded before the 2022 World Discipleship Summit, the principles are just as relevant for NASCON today.

Going to NASCON26 in Baltimore this weekend? Listen to this before you go.

We're bringing back this episode of the Rob Skinner Podcast because the advice Pam and I shared about making the most of a conference may be more relevant than ever—especially for singles heading to NASCON26: Divine Design – Created for Purpose.

A great Christian conference can encourage your faith, give you fresh vision, create lifelong friendships and introduce you to people who may change the direction of your life.

But don't just show up and hope something happens.

Prepare for it.

In this episode, Pam and I talk about what you can do before and during a conference to get the most out of the experience.

Before you go:

• Pray about what God wants you to learn and where you need to grow.

• Pray to make new friends.

• Contact people you'd like to spend time with before everyone's schedule fills up.

• Don't plan to spend the entire conference only with people from your home church.

• Prepare yourself spiritually.

• Get rested.

• And yes—look your best and make a great first impression.

Once you're there:

• Be loving to the person standing in front of you.

• Smile.

• Introduce yourself.

• Get outside your comfort zone.

• Sit toward the front.

• Take notes.

• Thank the speakers and people serving.

• Use meals to build relationships instead of spending half your lunch trying to find the perfect restaurant.

• Remember people's names.

• Ask good questions.

• Listen more than you talk.

• Exchange contact information.

• And follow up with the people you meet.

And if you're single...

This could be a life-changing weekend.

Pam and I share the story of two Christians who met at a conference—and eventually got married.

Does that mean you're going to NASCON just to find a spouse?

No.

Go to learn.

Go to grow.

Go to deepen your relationship with God.

Go to make friends.

But also be open to what God may do.

Be bold.

Meet people.

Don't spend the whole weekend surrounded by the same friends you traveled with.

If someone says, “There's somebody I'd like you to meet,” be open.

If you're on a date, don't spend the entire conversation talking about yourself. Ask questions. Be interested. Keep it light. Have fun.

NASCON26's theme is Divine Design – Created for Purpose.

Go into this weekend believing that God has a purpose for you right now.

Ask him:

“What do you want me to learn?”

“Who do you want me to meet?”

“Who can I encourage?”

“How do you want me to grow?”

Prepare for it.

Get ready for it.

And expect God to work.

Have an incredible NASCON26—and make this life count.

—Rob