We all need to hit the pause button from time to time. The fact is that life is relentless and there is much clutter to distract us from God. 
I love the idea of retreating from the world for a time to regroup and refocus. To do this well I suggest you do a little planning to make your time rewarding. Here are some insights I hope will help:
What is a spiritual retreat?
Christians have been 'retreating' from the world to focus on God for centuries. It's a time to get away from the distractions of life and focus on God. The key is to simply your time by reducing distractions and focusing on God.
Why take a retreat?
- Focus on God and get closer to Him.
- Refocus on life and what's important.
- Take a break.
- Relax and rest.
- Review the past; examen the present; plan for the future.
Where should you take your retreat?
- The key is to find a place where you aren't going to be distracted by stuff in your life. Going away somewhere makes sense but I also know of a guy who would spend the day in his closet and call it a retreat. (Whatever works right?)
When should you retreat?
Most of the advice I have been given and what I've found in my research is to take a day at least once a quarter.
Who should you take a retreat with?
While groups of people can retreat together, I have always preferred a solo retreat. I am around people all of the time and while I love this fact, truth is we all need a break on occassion.
How should you take a retreat?
What you do during your retreat is really up to you. But the idea is to focus on God. I know some people who create a schedule for their retreat. This doesn't work for me. My goal is to get to a place where I can focus. That's why the following are part of my retreat day:
- Prayer
- Meditation
- Journaling
- Read books
- Bible reading
- Reflecting
- Planning
- Walking
- Ask some deep questions about yourself and your relationship with God and others.
- Wait on God to speak to you.
If you've never taken a retreat, may I encourage you to take one soon. We all need time alone with God. The world is ruthless in this way. If you don't create the boundary of a retreat in your life, it will always have it's way with you.
I hope these tips and suggestions help you grow closer to God.
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