Gathering

“If the ax is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is needed, but skill will bring success.” - Ecclesiastes 10:10

When we retreat, we have to pull back from the front lines of our lives. This opening is designed to help attendees begin to turn from the mindset of active doing toward one of restful sharpening.

Gathering Breakout

Opportunity to process and release the conditions on the front lines in order to settle into a time of rest and rejuvenation.

Opening Worship

Begin time together with praise and thanksgiving for God’s presence and goodness through the recent battles of our lives. Rejoice in His faithfulness in providing this time to rest behind the lines.

Teaching Session #1

“What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun” - Ecclesiastes 1:9

A teaching on the seasons of life.

Small Group Breakout #1

An opportunity to process the teaching from Session 1 in partners with a seasons metaphor

Teaching Session #2

“I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God.” - Ecclesiastes 3:12-13

Small Group Breakout #2

Meal & merriment

Teaching Session #3

"He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men, yet they cannot fathom the work that God has done from beginning to end." - Ecclesiastes 3:11

A teaching on reunion with God

Closing Worship

Close time together with praise and thanksgiving for this time of retreat. Share testimonies of God’s goodness and the ways that He has allowed you to gain higher ground, regroup your troops, or reestablish supply lines. Be encouraged to allow God to lead us out rested and refreshed and ready to continue in fighting for His Kingdom on earth.