RETREAT is a spiritual renewal. In the hustle and bustle of life, finding time for spiritual renewal becomes very necessary. It acts as a necessary “reset” to overcome spiritual dryness, burnout, and worldly distractions. Spiritual renewal is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the necessity for believers to continually seek a refreshed and revitalised relationship with God.

Continuous spiritual refreshment becomes necessary because human nature is prone to spiritual stagnation and decay. Spiritual renewal is essential for maintaining a vibrant and effective Christian life. Spiritual retreats offer sacred space to disconnect from the distractions of the world and reconnect with God. It is in these moments of quiet reflection and prayer that we can truly listen to God’s voice and realign our hearts with His purpose.

Spiritual retreats are not just a pause from our regular activities; they are a time for renewal and revival. They provide a chance to step back and detach from activities to assess our spiritual journey, and make necessary adjustments. It is a season of renewal, where one can reconnect with God and receive clarity, direction and strength. The word “retreat” can be broken down into “re” (again) and “treat” (to give attention to someone or something), emphasising the importance of giving attention and concentration to God once again. Retreat is a strategic spiritual discipline to be practiced at every phase of a believer’s life. It is a time to wait on God, receive a deposit, and hear from Him. When going on retreat, you should go with your writing materials, so, as to document the visions, plans and instructions. The importance of a spiritual retreat cannot be over emphasised in the life of a believer. At retreat, you hear from God as you wait on Him. It helps you to build stability in your faith. You receive clarity and direction.

Going on a spiritual retreat is a positive practice that should be encouraged among believers because of its enormous spiritual benefits. The story of how the eagle renews its strength is instructive here. The eagle flies to a high mountain and strikes its beak upon the mountain to get rid of its bent beak which is now weak. Afterwards, the eagle plucks off its feathers because they now cleave to its body, heavy and cannot fly at a high altitude as usual. You see from the story of the eagle, spiritual retreat is a time of plucking off weights that are unnecessary in our spiritual journey. It is a time of spiritual alignment into God’s plans and purposes. It is a time to receive fresh vision from God for your life. Spiritual retreats provide opportunities for restoration, transformation and personal development.

Spiritual retreat is something every believer should do periodically. Jesus practiced it while on His earthly ministry. Mark 1:35: “And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.” Spiritual retreat is a time of unfettered focus on God Himself. Cut off your cell phone and social media while on retreat. Man does not live by cell phones alone! Retreat is a time to thoroughlysearch yourself. Turn from every sin the Lord reveals in your heart and forsake it. Confess each sin, with the willingness to make it right. Repent from sin! Spend some extended time reading the scripture. Write down what you see: insights, reminders, promises and questions.

• Today’s nugget: Retreat is a time for renewal and revival. Prayer: Lord search and purge me from sin.
Prayer lines: 08033299824. E-mail:[email protected], Rev. Abel UkachiAmadi, General Superintendent, Assemblies of God Nigeria.