How to Do A Personal Spiritual Retreat
deeper dive
This essay was first published in 2021. I rarely pay attention to stats or numbers, as I find it distracting. Recently, however, I noticed this post had gone viral on Pinterest. What does that mean? Well, not much compared to real life, but I found it interesting that these words have resonated with thousands of people. I decided to give this a little ‘glow-up’ before sharing updated pins on Pinterest (which helps the post reach more people).
Have you ever set aside time for a personal spiritual retreat? These days, there’s a lot of talk about self-care. We are encouraged to, “Take time and treat yourself!” This approach could range from scheduling a pedicure to booking an expensive spa weekend in Cabo. You idea of self-care may be having a day all to yourself to do exactly what you want (or need) to do.
Over the years, I’ve had wonderful opportunities for spiritual enrichment outside the local church. This includes retreats, worship conferences, and other inspirational gatherings.
Events like these usually provide time for fellowship, worship, and teaching alongside others of like-minded faith. And while these moments have the potential to impact us significantly, they are not the same as a personal spiritual retreat.
"Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you..." James 4.8a (ESV)
Who should consider taking a personal spiritual retreat?
For moms of children or teens, a weekend (or an afternoon) of uninterrupted Bible study, worship, and prayer can bring refreshment in spirit, as well as physical and emotional rest.
For those involved in ministry (paid or volunteer), a personal spiritual retreat provides time for reflection, focused study, and encouragement from God that is often needed when serving others.
For anyone, whatever your circumstance, a personal spiritual retreat creates space to sit with Jesus, read Scripture, journal your thoughts and what God is teaching you, and be renewed—body, mind, and soul.
If you are struggling with a particular situation or challenge, a spiritual retreat allows for private, alone time with God to seek His face for guidance and peace.
How to plan for a personal spiritual retreat?
If you need a retreat, here are a few suggestions for how to get started.
#1 – Pray and plan. Ask God to help you find the time, space, and resources for a retreat. If married, share with your spouse that you would like to take time alone with the Lord. If needed, make decisions about childcare and ask God to work out the details.
#2 – Select the date and location. Put it on your calendar. Try to schedule a weekend or overnight. For overnight or weekend retreats, a hotel, bed & breakfast, or rental can be good options. Look for discounts online. Request a room on the top floor in a quiet corner. Consider what is available nearby, such as walking trails or tranquil places to enjoy God’s creation. If overnight is not an option, plan a full or half-day retreat (coffee shops, bookstores, or the local library usually offer quiet places to retreat for short periods).
#3 – Keep in mind this is not the opportunity for a friend’s getaway. A personal spiritual retreat is intended to be between you and God.
To the women, if you are uncomfortable traveling or staying alone, consider sharing the time with a close friend who also has a desire for solitude and spiritual things. When doing a spiritual retreat with a friend, I suggest separate rooms so both of you have the space to engage in individual prayer and alone time with the Lord. Of course, you may want to share meals or hiking/walking together.
#4 – Create your spiritual retreat survival bag. Consider packing the following items for your retreat.
Bible
Journal or notebook(s)
Bible study materials you may be working on
Laptop or another device, if desired
Pens, highlighters, colored pencils
Tissues, drinks, snacks (unless you are fasting)
Ear buds or headphones
Worship music/playlist on device
Other items that encourage creativity or closeness to God. I like to have my digital camera (or use my phone) to take pictures while walking or observing creation. A friend of mine loves to knit, and says it helps her to lay aside the cares of life and hear God’s voice.
#5 – Unplug from social media & other disruptions. While on retreat, try to live unplugged. For safety and assurance, always maintain contact with loved ones. Otherwise, unplug during the times of prayer, worship, and Bible study. Consider limiting social media to once-a-day, but only for purposes related to work or family communication. I also suggest no posting to your socials during the retreat.
My own experiences with a personal spiritual retreat have been incredibly meaningful and, at the risk of sounding dramatic, even life changing. Remember, your level of expectation often dictates the outcome.
Supplemental Materials for Spiritual Retreating
*“How to Take A Spiritual Retreat” This blog article has some great suggestions for a simple schedule while retreating, as well as suggestions for reading material to use.
*This is a great article – Personal Spiritual Retreat: 24 Hours With God
*3 Spiritual Retreats That Will Rekindle Your Spark This blog article describes three different kinds of retreats and why you may need them.
*Here are a few books I like for spiritual retreating: 1) Liturgies for Hope, 2) The Valley of Vision, 3) Secrets of the Secret Place.