Apicontent

When parents take their children on a trip, invariably they will hear the question, “Are we there yet?” In response, they encourage their kids to have patience and enjoy the ride. Yet often parents, during their own journey with God, ask a similar question, “What’s taking so long?” God never seems to be in a hurry.

And the priest told them, “Go in peace. The LORD is watching over your journey.” (Judges 18:6, BSB)

There are times in life when we find ourselves on a journey focused on a specific destination and experiencing obstacles along the way. Some journeys are about accomplishing a challenging goal. Other journeys are about overcoming trials and may involve suffering. These can be special times with God if we realize that he is traveling with us.

Whether the journey lasts days, months, or years, we need to embrace the adventure with God so we will experience the joys and hardships together. As a result, our relationship with God will be closer and deeper.

It’s natural to want to get to our destination as soon as possible. But that is not God’s priority. He is interested in the journey and what he will accomplish in us along the way. Even obstacles and delays serve in his ultimate purpose.

“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the LORD. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine.” (Isaiah 55:8, NLT)

Why is the journey so important to God?

Relationships take time and they deepen as we share experiences along the way. God uses our journey time with him to deepen his relationship with us individually. Things happen which cause us to share our thoughts, hopes, and feelings with him.

God also uses the journey time to develop our character. It’s the potholes, detours, and difficulties along the way that provide opportunities to reshape and refine our attitudes and actions. When we finally arrive at our destination, God wants us to be thinking with his mindset. This takes time and it’s his goal we not become derailed from his plan, but champions of endurance.

We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. (Romans 5:3–4, NLT)

God is using the journey time to prepare the right setting and circumstances for our arrival at his destination.  In his sovereignty, he is able to orchestrate events and arrange divine appointments. What seems like a delay or roadblock now may guarantee an exciting addition to the journey.

Don’t be in a hurry. Trust God’s pace for your journey. Along the way, he is accomplishing much more than you could ever imagine.

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. (Psalm 32:8, NIV)

Periodically, we need special getaways for more concentrated alone time with God. Our daily schedules are usually full and sometimes hectic. So occasionally we need a larger block of time to worship him, seek guidance, and/or work through significant challenges.

Retreat time with God is a time intentionally set aside when you literally “retreat” from your everyday life and come away to a place where you can be alone with God.

One day soon afterward Jesus went up on a mountain to pray, and he prayed to God all night. At daybreak he called together all of his disciples and chose twelve of them to be apostles. (Luke 6:12, 13, NLT)

Jesus was about to choose his twelve out of a larger group of followers. It was perhaps the most significant decision of his earthly life. He would be with them and send them to do his will. They would receive the bulk of his teaching and the secrets of the kingdom. The subsequent Great Commission would be in their hands. They would be leading the first church after his departure (ascension). Jesus was fully human. So, he went up on a mountain to have retreat time with the Father overnight. He sought the Father’s face, sacrificing his sleep after a long, exhausting day of ministering to others. It was during this retreat time when Jesus was able to decide whom to call to be his twelve apostles.

Like Jesus, there are times when we need retreat time with God to seek his will, discern his plan, receive his guidance and directions, and to pray for others for breakthroughs.

An Extended Time with God

There are various reasons for getting alone with God for a longer period of time. Here are a few:

Relationship

You need uninterrupted time to renew or deepen your relationship. It is time to focus on God’s lovingkindness, faithfulness, and who you are in Christ.

Worship

As an expression of your devotion, you want more time to praise and worship God for his majestic character and amazing deeds.

Perspective

Perhaps you need to get into God’s Word to gain a correct view of your circumstances and life in general to counteract the deceptive illusions of reality promoted by society.

Comfort

Maybe you have just experienced a great loss and are seeking God’s comforting presence and peace.

Guidance

There are times when you need to make a major decision that will have a significant impact on your future. Rather than just weighing the pros and cons in your mind, get alone with God and ask him for supernatural wisdom. He knows all and sees all.

Provision

Sometimes are in need of employment, financial help, or even food and shelter. Spending time with God can open your eyes to his provision.

Deliverance

Perhaps you are struggling with an attitude or behavior problem. Maybe you have a health crisis, spiritual assault, or other threatening situations.

Intercession

God wants us to bring the needs of our family, friends, nation, and others to him. Because of our relationship with him, he invites us to ask him to intervene on behalf of others.

Tips for Retreat Time with God

Schedule Your Retreat Time

You may want to get away with God and have the best intentions but until you block out time on your calendar it is unlikely it will happen. Without deliberate action, other activities will fill your schedule.

Plan Your Retreat

Is there a primary reason for this extended time with God? Worship? Prayer? Guidance? Provision? Deliverance? Or a combination of reasons? Whatever your reason, go into your retreat anticipating God will reveal his presence and meet your need through the Holy Spirit.

Take Spiritual Resources

Bring the resources you may need. In addition to your Bible, what about worship music, devotionals, etc. Be sure to have access to the many resources on this app as well.

Avoid Distractions

Various distractions can hinder your retreat time with God. See tips for avoiding distractions in Quiet Time with God.

Resources for Retreat Time with God

The following article series can guide you on how to have a more fruitful extended time with God. Select an article series from the list below.

>> The Bible

>> Hope in Times of Crisis

>> Parables in the Gospel of Luke

>> Timeless Wisdom from Proverbs

>> New Perspectives for Life Change

>> Prayer Starter

>> The Lord’s Prayer Guide

>> Worship

>> Forever Loved: Jesus’ Life of Love

>> Habits for Greater Intimacy with God

>> Attitudes and Behavior

When you spend time with other believers, you are also spending time with God because he also lives within each one of them. Don’t allow yourself to become preoccupied with their external characteristics. Look into their eyes. Listen to their words. Share Christ’s lovingkindness and encouragement. Collectively we are the Body of Christ and he lives in and through us.

Together with Christ

As believers, we are members of God’s family — the Body of Christ. Because the Holy Spirit lives within every believer, we can actually develop a deeper relationship with God as we spend time with other followers of Jesus. 

Jesus said, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (Matthew 18:20, NIV)

When we are together with others in God’s family, we can worship together, encourage one another, discover new insights, and enjoy the intimate fellowship of being in Christ.

Connecting with the Family of God

Home Life

When you are at home with your Christian family members, don’t forget that the Holy lives within each one of you. Be alert to what the Holy Spirit may want to reveal to you through observations, conversations, and activities.

Fellowship with Believers

When you get together with friends, remind yourself that Jesus is also in your midst. Be genuinely interested in them and what God is doing in their lives.

Church Gatherings

When you attend church events, Christ is glorified as the Spirit moves in worship, prayer, and fellowship.

Tips for Family Time with God

Eyes

The eyes are windows to a person’s soul. Make eye contact and ask the Holy Spirit to make you aware of what is going on inside the other person. Be sensitive. If prompted by the Spirit, use explorative questions to help them open up and share their feelings with you.

Words

Don’t make assumptions about the value of what others will say based on your perception of them. Remember the Holy Spirit lives within them and he may choose to speak words you need to hear through them. So listen to others for God’s message. Be an encouragement to them in what you say. What would Jesus say to them right now?

Actions

Notice what others do for one another. Jesus will demonstrate his presence in others through deeds of humility, service, and love. Be an example through your actions.

Resources for Family Time with God

• My New Identity in Christ
• Gracious Revealer of Truth
• Recognizing Directional Signposts
• Forgiveness Overview
• Deliverance Overview
• Intercession Overview
• Seeing the Truth
• Your Relationships from God’s Perspective
• Insights from God
• Connecting with God’s Family
• Being the Church to One Another
• Resisting Isolation
• Change Attitudes and Behavior
• Relationship Starts with You
• Radiate God’s Love

As you go through your day engaging in various activities, remember that God is with you. In fact, as a believer, the Holy Spirit actually resides within you. But even though God is always with you, it is easy to forget about his presence as we engage in the various activities of the day.

And the LORD said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” (Exodus 33:14)

“And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20, NLT)

Awareness of God‘s Presence

Wherever you go, God is always with you (just like your hand). So use the fingers of your hand as a reminder of five ways to watch how God may be demonstrating his presence and involvement throughout your day.

1. God‘s Loving Presence

In what ways is God demonstrating his loving kindness and goodness to you today?

2. God’s Empowering Presence

How are you noticing God enabling you to do above and beyond your natural capabilities through the help of the Holy Spirit?

3. God’s Illuminating Presence

When are you experiencing flashes of insight that provide guidance and understanding related to what you are doing today?

4. God‘s Sovereign Presence

Where are you seeing God orchestrate circumstances that affect you and others today?

5. God‘s Comforting Presence

When are you experiencing supernatural peace and joy amid difficulties?

Tips for Activity Time with God

Nature

Take a moment to enjoy the beauty, intricacy, and diversity of God’s creation.

People

Pay attention to people. Jesus died for each person so they can have a personal relationship with him for all eternity. Be aware that Jesus wants to love people through you. Allow him to express joy, kindness, and encouragement to the people you meet.

Interruptions

Interruptions can be frustrating because they get in the way of our plans. When you have an interruption, ask the Holy Spirit how he wants you to respond and what God may want to accomplish as a result.

Delays

Delays can also be difficult because we are usually in a hurry. Thank God for delays trusting he is sovereignly working to accomplish his purpose. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you patience and the other fruit of the Spirit. Then others will see Christ living in and through you.

Surprises

Expect surprises. God is the master of a surprise because it is a way he demonstrates his sovereign control of circumstances and why we need to trust and depend on him.

Protection

Pay attention to situations where you were in danger but God intervened to deliver you from harm.

Provision

Watch for ways God is meeting the needs that you have.

Companionship

Remember that God is with you even when you feel alone. Look inward and engage with him.

Pray Continually

Make it a habit to talk to God throughout your day — probably more in your mind than audibly. He is there with you. Share your thoughts with him. Ask him for his involvement in what you are doing. Thank and praise him for what you notice. Do life together with him.

Resources for Activity Time with God

The following articles can guide you on how to become more aware of God’s presence and actively watch for ways God is at work in your daily life.

• Thank God for His Deeds
• My Observations of God’s Love and Goodness
• Recognizing Directional Signposts
• Help me with my needs, Lord?
• Ask, Seek, Knock
• Stand Against the Devil’s Schemes
• Your Situation from God’s Perspective
• Depend on God for His Power
• Insights from God
• Resisting Temptation

As Christ-followers, we need focused daily time with God to cultivate an intimate love relationship with him. It is time alone with him, free from interruptions, where he has our full concentrated attention. The priority is to grow closer to God by communicating and being with him.

“But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.” (Matthew 6:6, NLT)

Avoiding Distractions

Various distractions can hinder your ability to have a meaningful quiet time with God.

Environmental Distractions

As much as possible, try to find a time and place for your quiet time that minimizes external interruptions. For many people, early mornings or late evenings are quieter times with less activity.

Time Distractions

Most people have busy schedules and so they feel they can’t devote much daily time to being alone with God. Don’t let time pressures interfere with the quality of your time with God. Whether its an hour, half an hour or just 10 minutes, set a timer so you don’t have to keep thinking about leaving. Focus your attention on God, not your clock.

Emotional Distractions

Sometimes you may not feel like getting alone with God. Your lack of desire may be caused by disobedience, guilt, or shame. Or maybe it is just indifference to wanting a closer relationship with God. Regardless of the reason, spending that special time with God is even more important under those circumstances. Get alone with God and be transparent about your feelings. Although he already knows the condition of your heart and your situation, it is very beneficial for you to discuss it with him. If you don’t even know what to say, ask the Holy Spirit to help you communicate with God and to change your heart.

Mental Distractions

You may have a lot of things going on in your life. And so, when you spent time alone with God, you may find your mind wandering to thoughts about your circumstances or pressing activities. When you begin your quiet time, take a minute or two to release your thoughts and mental activity to the Holy Spirit. Entrust them into his care so you can more fully concentrate on God. If your thoughts still drift away from focusing on God, don’t get frustrated. Just reorient your thinking again or spend some time discussing your thoughts with God.

Demonic Distractions

Occasionally you may experience unexplainable random thoughts or feelings that interfere with your quiet time. Usually, they will cause you to wonder, “Where did that come from?” Demons are able to interject deceptive thoughts into your brain or manipulate your feelings. If you experience that, take a stand against the evil one by verbally rejecting the thought and/or feeling. Ask the Holy Spirit to help guard your mind and heart by delivering you from the assault and shielding you from further attacks.

Tips for a Better Quiet Time

Music

The right kind of music can engage your thoughts and emotions in meaningful worship. Use songs that speak to your heart during your times with God.

Bible Reading

As you spend time in God‘s word, read with observation questions in mind that help you draw out insights. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal new insights to you.

Highlighting

Whether you are reading the Bible or a devotion, highlight, or underline portions that seem most meaningful to you. The process will help you remember more and enable you to review past insights.

Journaling

Write down your thoughts about God and what he is showing you. Writing is a wonderful way to capture meaningful thoughts, feelings, and insights during your special times with God. Then they can stimulate even more meaningful interaction with God as you review them during future quiet times.

Devices

Create playlists on your phone with special songs for your worship time. Set your phone timer for when you need to leave and then stop thinking about your schedule and totally focus on God.

Notes

If thoughts about important things you need to do keep interrupting your time, quickly jot them down on a piece of paper and then dismiss them from your thinking so you can concentrate on God.

Worthwhile

The value of your quiet time is not determined by what you get out of it, but rather by honoring God with dedicated time focused on him. If you leave your quiet time without having received a new insight or being moved emotionally, you will be tempted to think your time was not worthwhile. We naturally place value on things based on what we get out of them. But you have just spent time focused on God and he sees that as having the utmost value. Your quiet time is devoted to relationship building with a heartfelt desire to grow closer to God. That has tremendous value regardless of what God chooses to give back to you during that time.

Snuggle Time

Don’t think of your quiet time as being an academic exercise or business meeting with God. You are his dearly loved child and this is the time when you are climbing into the lap of your Abba Father for a special time together.

Silence

Don’t feel the pressure to constantly be talking to God or reading or doing some other activity during your quiet time. Silence is necessary so you can hear thoughts and impressions from the Holy Spirit. Allow yourself to be still before your loving Father and listen with your spirit.

Holy Spirit

Depend on the Holy Spirit to guide you and help you cultivate your relationship with God. It is only through his involvement that your quiet time will become a supernatural, spiritual experience.

Resources for Your Quiet Time

If your quiet time with God is stalled or stagnant, use Today’s Inspirations (accessible on the Dashboard) and the “Time with God” section (in the main menu) of this app, and ask the Holy Spirit to stimulate your spirit. He will help you develop a more meaningful relationship with God.

Select from the following list of article series available in this JO App.

>> The Bible

>> Highlights in the Gospel of Mark

>> 40 Days of God’s Love

>> Understanding God’s Will

>> Prayer Starter

>> The Lord’s Prayer Guide

>> Worship

>> Praise God with Songs

>> God’s Majestic Qualities

>> God’s Special Names for Special Purposes

>> Receiving Insights from God