2020 Personal Retreat

As we come to the end of 2020, we find ourselves amid the wilderness. Far from home, the comforting confines of “normal” no longer in our purview. Navigating through these past twelve months has left us exhausted, isolated, hurting, and disconcerted. The collective groan of humanity mimics that of the prophet Elijah.

Running for his life, exiled to the wilderness, Elijah utters words we’ve all undoubtedly said at some point this year, “I’ve had enough, Lord!” Finding ourselves at the end of our rope, many of us are hanging on by a thread. To not address the validity of these emotions would be disingenuous and insincere. God isn’t afraid of our angst and anxiety. Neither is He shocked by our fear and dismay. It’s quite the opposite - God welcomes them. Like a concerned father, He invites us to bring Him our questions and concerns.

If we indeed believe God uses EVERYTHING for our good, it means that no matter how difficult or challenging this past year has been, God was in it. Not only was He in it, but He provided for you all along the way. We can’t take this for granted, but we will if we don’t slow down, reflect, and articulate our gratitude for His faithfulness.

Without a disruption, we drift aimlessly in the direction we’ve always gone. Over the past year, God did work inside our hearts as we responded to the circumstances we faced. While we’d rather settle for the “old days,” He wants to do something new within us. Our best doesn’t remain in the past; it resides in the present with an eye to the future.

By reflecting on Elijah’s story, we want to help you process all that took place this past year and articulate your next steps of faith. Below you’ll find a PDF file of this year’s personal retreat. Carve out some time to disconnect from the world around you for about two hours so you can connect with your Creator.

Print out a copy of the retreat, grab your Bible, a journal, and a pen, then find a quiet place void of distractions. We can’t wait to hear how God uses this experience to provide insight, encourage your heart, and reaffirm that He is with you no matter where you are.

Find the Personal Retreat Here: www.portcity.church/personalretreat