Key Verse: Isaiah 40:31: “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint,” (KJV).

Spiritual retreat helps us to deepen our relationship with God. It is spiritual renewal that brings about intimacy with God. It helps us to deepen our spiritual lives, which is the source of our spiritual strength.

It helps us to recharge our spiritual batteries when we are exhausted spiritually. It helps us to reflect on ourselves. It is an occasion for a serious assessment of our situation in life and for planning our future. Going on retreat requires a conscious decision. We should go on spiritual retreats from time to time. It is not just a one-time thing. The point of a retreat is to withdraw from daily life, and silence is at its core. We speak a lot to God and it is a good thing, but let us allow Him to speak to us. Spiritual retreat is a time to listen to the Holy Spirit as He speaks to us. The retreat allows us to revitalise our personal spiritual life, and to make God first again in our lives. It encourages us on our path to holiness.

Spiritual retreats are moments of refreshing in the presence of God. There are many reasons we go on spiritual retreats. When you notice you are getting weak spiritually, you need a retreat. When you are exhausted spiritually, you need a retreat. When you are not clear about the way to go, you need a retreat. When you notice that things are going down with you, you need a retreat.When you notice a burden for something, you need a retreat. When your life is not going the way it should go, you need a retreat. To advance the course of your life, career or ministry, you need a retreat.

When you notice thatfavour is scarce in your life, you need a retreat. When you are confused about something, you need a retreat. When you feel spiritually drained, disconnected from God, overwhelmed by life’s demands, or facing significant transitions, you need to go on spiritual retreat. When you feel your connection with God is broken, you need to go on spiritual retreat.

Going on spiritual retreats give us the space to let God guide us in the path of righteousness. Spiritual retreat is a platform for restoration of our soul. Psalm 23:3 says: “He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.” Engaging in reflective and spiritual activities promotes restorative outcomes. Spiritual retreats provide an opportunity for restoration, transformation and personal development. There are step-by-step guides for spiritual retreats.

Find a quiet setting where you can be alone with God: a retreat centre or a peaceful outdoor location. Clarify your purpose for the retreat, for example; you want a deeper connection with God. Setting an intention will help you focus your time. When your retreat begins, engage in an activity that helps you to transit into stillness and settle in God’s presence. Take time to reflect on the past week or month and use a reflection worksheet to capture any longings within your soul.

Connect with God by engaging in spiritual practices, including reading your Bible, praying, singing and worshipping God. As your retreat ends, reflect on what you have received and what you want to take back with you. Spiritual retreat is the grand secret of spiritual stamina. Retreats are time of appraisal, correction and empowerment.

• Today’s nugget: A retreat is a time away from your normal activity. Prayer: Lord renew me spiritually. Prayer lines: 08033299824. E-mail: [email protected]. Rev. Abel UkachiAmadi, General Superintendent,Assemblies of God Nigeria.