As God leads us to discern the times and seasons, there is one thing we must come to understand. Retreats must be a part of the life of every believer. These retreats are not about withdrawing from life; they’re about tuning into God and being discerning of what He has for you. God has structured retreats for your sustenance.

The believer cannot function rightly without several times of refreshing and retreats in a year. This is how God has structured our spiritual sustenance. If you find your zeal fading, it’s a sign you need a spiritual reset. The discerning believer retreats frequently because “if you stay in this world too long, you become numb to the things of the Spirit.” A strategic retreat is not a defeat; rather, it is a move toward victory.

Have you experienced being excited after a special meeting, only for that excitement to fade within a couple of months? This shows you the need for multiple such experiences to stay grounded. Life happens, and it’s natural for the things of this world to distract you from what you’ve received. It’s understandable to struggle with devotion sometimes; the real concern would be if you don’t take advantage of those moments of refreshing. You need several experiences a year to stay in check.

Every time of retreat is made to help you recalibrate your vision, adjust your course, and ensure your priorities match God’s heart. This is where vision is clarified, and strength is renewed. Look at what David experienced: 

Psalm 23:2-3 
New King James Version 
2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters.

3 He restores my soul…

This restoration is a deep refreshing that satisfies the spirit and causes us to overflow, birthing supernatural results in our lives. This overflow leads to living a naturally supernatural life, knowing what to do, when to do it, and how, because you are consistently in step with the Spirit.

So, every time you position yourself for times of refreshing, expect to be RICH. 

R is for Rejuvenation – A spiritual kickstart, a revival of your initial fervor, renewing your heart for the gospel and the things of God. 

Isaiah 40:31 
New King James Version
31 But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.

This waiting, this Qavah, brings renewal and refreshment. There are so many testimonies to back this up. That every time believers retreat, they come back renewed! Not tired, not faint, or weary, but strengthened for the next phase God is leading you to. 

I is for Indoctrination – A revival of the Word, where truth penetrates your being. 

One thing present when believers gather is that the word is taught, and more so during retreats. You spend time in the world being refreshed by it. Letting it indoctrinate you and build your convictions. This is equally essential to your growth. 

C is for Celebrations – Open, joyful expression in worship.

H is for Harvest – The reaping of spiritual results and souls.

These are marks of times of refreshing!

Times of refreshing are crucial for dismantling every “appearance of being fervent,” where outward appearance masks inner struggle. They are a complete overhaul, restoring us to our original spiritual fervor. They reset us, bringing us back to the flowing, effortless devotion we might have experienced when first saved, removing anything that hinders the flow of God’s Spirit.

Ephesians 5:15-16
New King James Version 
15 See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, 

16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

We are called to redeem the time, buying back moments lost to worldly distractions. Spiritual meetings and retreats are vital for this. They are not merely for fun but are necessary for edification. The long hours of teaching and prayer during such events provide an emphasis that regular services may not always offer. They allow us to separate from daily routines and fully immerse ourselves in the things of the Spirit. 

Prayer Point
Father, help me discern this season for what it truly is! I refuse to stay numb to the things of the Spirit. I take advantage of every time of retreat You have ordained for my life and as I wait on you, I am refreshed and renewed.