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The Retreat

I was recently blessed to take a 24 hour writing retreat. A friend loaned me a space about an hour away from home so there would be no distractions. I was skeptical at first. It seemed like another fun overnight opportunity.  On the way, I picked up groceries, and when I arrived, I did not leave until the next morning. It was a grueling, beautiful day of researching, writing, and praying. It's amazing what God will speak when things are quiet enough for me to hear His voice. This new experience helped me to finally understand the significance of why Jesus took time away from the crowds.

But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. (Luke 5:16 NIV)

One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. (Luke 6:19 NIV)

Multiple times in the Gospels, Jesus separates from the noise and gets alone with God. After following His example, I understand why this time is so very sacred. Our lives are filled with never-ending tasks to be completed. It's difficult for a family to get away and rid themselves of distractions for a vacation. In our society, time away from the crowd and alone with God is non-existent. 

There's something about separating yourself from the everyday that helps you shift focus. I had to be intentional about staying on task and focusing on my reason for the retreat. I wanted to return home having accomplished putting words to the page. I wasn't expecting the spiritual rejuvenation that came with it. 

I don't know how often I will be able to retreat. It was something I knew I had time for while I was off for the summer. It may not happen again until next summer. It may never happen again. But the hours spent in this space renewed my heart and spirit. God also revealed some things to me about this journey I'm on. 

The loaned space was a blessing. But if you want to get alone with God, how would that look? I know my guys enjoy camping and being on the river. For them, that would be a perfect opportunity to retreat. Some people may have a camper that they can use, even if you stay right in your yard. Jesus preferred gardens, mountains, and sometimes even a wilderness. The point is to free yourself from the daily distractions and really seek God. Maybe you don't have 24 hours. Maybe you only have three. Or one. That's okay. Take it. Seclude yourself in the presence of God. Allow Holy Spirit to renew you. Take the retreat.

© Jill Cook and Unbroken & Undone Ministries.  All rights reserved.

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