Friday, September 23, 2011

Come Away and Enjoy My Presence: Presence Filled Fridays

"Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, Jesus said to them, 'Come away with Me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.'" Mark 6:31


Ever been so busy coming and going that you didn't even have a chance to eat? I have to say that this has been the norm for me the last two weeks. But I am also excited to tell you that this weekend, I am going away with God (and 58 sweet women) to a quiet place and get some much needed rest. I am excited about the opportunity for rest. For the relief from all things social media (sorry!) and cell phone. But more than anything, I want to be with my Jesus. I long to be in His Presence. Though I walk with Him each day, I am desiring time set aside to just enjoy Him and to listen to Him.


I know this is not easy for everyone. Some people have responsibilities that make it nearly impossible to get away. Others have never retreated with God and don't know if they will like it or not.

I just want to encourage you to spend twenty minutes with Him this weekend.  That's about as long as a sitcom. Twenty minutes to read a few scriptures - start in John if you have never read them. If you have read John, then start reading Isaiah 40. After you read the Scriptures, just sit and listen. Pray. But mostly listen. I can assure you He has something to say to you. (If you get distracted, write down your random thoughts, so you can refocus.) I am hoping that after you spend twenty minutes with Him, you'll want to spend more.

And I'll be praying for you. I'd appreciate your prayers as well. 

REtreat     REfuge   REst    REstoration    REdemption    REnewal of the Mind    REbirth   REfreshment of the Soul    REvival of the Heart    REpentance     REturning REady    REly on Him

What is your favorite place to get away with God? What helps you focus when you spend time with Him? Share your comments. I'd love to read them. 

Unwrapping the sweet gift of His presence,

Kelli

5 comments:

Unknown said...

Oh so excited for you to get away and enjoy the presence of God...Drink in rest, sweet sister!

Stefanie Brown said...

Kelli,
Found you though Southern T today. Great post! I contributed there several weeks ago, too.
Followed you though NWB. Excited to see more of what the Lord gives you to share.
Blessings...

Unknown said...

My favorite getaway is to the mountains of Highlands, NC. If I can't get there, then my back porch on a cool day helps me to rest and refocus.

Brent said...

I've been spending 20-25 minutes a day every morning with God for the past 2 weeks. I read my devotions, read more in my Bible, and then spend time in prayer guided by a very detailed daily prayer schedule that I update about every 3 months. This time is so rich....I have no doubt about being in His will after spending such intimate time with Him. Great blog, Kelli. Praying for you and all the wonderful CCC women this weekend.

Shanda said...

My favorite place to get away is just nature in general: even a park near my house. It just needs to be away from home and people I know. God is faithful to always meet me there.