About seven months ago, I went on a personal retreat, a practice I’ve cherished for years. COVID-19 had put a halt to my usual beach trips, but this time, I felt a nudge to go to the mountains. This unexpected journey to the Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove in Asheville turned into an experience of profound spiritual renewal.
Faith Journey: The Call to the Mountains
A Listening Heart
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Typically, my retreats involve feeling the ocean breeze and listening to the soothing crashing of waves. However, this time was different. I felt a strong urge to head to the mountains, which was a four-hour drive from home. Trusting this inner prompting, I made a reservation and set out.
A Time for Renewal
At The Cove, I dedicated my time to fasting, worshiping, praying, and meditating on God’s Word. These retreats are my sacred moments to slow down, quiet my soul, and tune into what the Lord is saying. Throughout my time there, I met others who were also on similar personal retreats. But it wasn’t until the last day that something truly remarkable happened.
An Unexpected Encounter
On the final day, I intended to break my fast before heading home. However, I felt a sudden impression to wait, go upstairs, and sit across from the elevator. Uncertain but obedient, I followed this prompting. While waiting, I sang, read scripture, journaled, and prayed in the Spirit.
Suddenly, I felt a strong impression in my spirit to tell a woman that her prayers were answered. At first, no woman was in sight, but a few minutes later, a woman entered the elevator. Gathering my courage, I approached her and conveyed, “Ma’am, I’m sorry, you don’t know me, but I just heard the Lord in my spirit say to tell you your prayers are answered.” What followed was an extraordinary moment of divine connection.
God’s Perfect Timing
The woman got out of the elevator, overwhelmed with emotion, she shared her story with me. She and her husband were at the retreat, dealing with major life storms. She had just prayed on the porch, seeking God’s guidance. It turns out she and her husband were also there on a personal retreat that weekend, and they were getting ready to head back home. Someone had given them the retreat three years ago as a gift, but they had not used it. It wasn’t a coincidence that we were both there that weekend.
Our encounter was no coincidence—God knew her struggles and orchestrated our meeting perfectly. As the woman later described our encounter, God knew her anguish, and he had me waiting (at the train station), sitting on the sofa across from the elevator for her.
God is still writing the testimony of this encounter with this woman and her husband. I am continually amazed by how it unfolds…
3 Spiritual Lessons from This Testimony of Faith
Whatever challenges or troubles you’re facing today, you can be confident of God’s perfect timing and special love for you. My three lessons from this testimony of faith are:
- God’s Awareness: He sees you, knows you, and cares for you deeply.
- Divine Appointments: God arranges encounters that remind us of His presence and care.
- Obedience to Promptings: Trusting and acting on God’s guidance can lead to profound blessings for us and others.
5 Practical Tips Christian Women Can Embrace for Spiritual Guidance and Growth
If you’ve never taken a personal retreat for spiritual renewal, consider planning one soon. You might be surprised by how God meets you in that sacred time. Here are 5 practical tips to help you connect with God and restore your spirit.
- Schedule Regular Retreats: Set aside time regularly for personal retreats, whether it’s a day or a weekend, to reconnect with God.
- Be Open to God’s Promptings: Stay attuned to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, even when it seems unexpected.
- Trust God’s Timing: Remember that God’s timing is perfect, and He knows your needs better than you do.
- Share Your Faith: Don’t hesitate to share words of encouragement and faith with others. You never know how God might use you.
- Reflect and Journal: Use a journal to document your spiritual journey, jotting down God’s guidance and the ways He answers your prayers.
Remember that God sees you, knows you, and cares deeply for you no matter what challenges you face in your marriage, finances, relationships, or personal health. You matter to Him, and He is always an on-time God. Just as He met the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4), He is ready to meet you at the point of your need. Trust in His perfect timing and unwavering love.
Scripture for Encouragement
What is the price of two sparrows—one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows. — Matthew 10:29-31
Have you ever experienced God’s presence in an unexpected way? I’d love to hear your stories! Share in the comments below how God has shown up for you during difficult times or how a personal retreat has impacted your life.
Remember, you are seen, known, and deeply loved by God. Join the conversation, and let’s support each other on this journey of faith!
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