Kristin S. RTR 2015

- One of my biggest takeaways was that resting is an act of worship...he is pleased when we decide to stop and acknowledge that He is the great sovereign of the universe and we are not. The Sabbath set apart Israel because they trusted God's provision and control, while other nations around them worked day in and day out trusting in their own strength. Also, another big takeaway is how rest also underlies how we view our acceptance before God. Are we resting in the finished work of Christ, or are we still trying to make ourselves acceptable by our performance?  "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
(Matthew 11:28-30 ESV)

- RTR has simply helped me put more attention on the overall rest, or lack there of at times, in my life. Not only physically, but spiritually as well. I find that I'm more mindful of this than I ever was before attending the retreat. Also, RTR has connected me with some amazing women who I can call dear friends and sisters in the Lord, and having them in my life has been a great encouragement to my heart over these past few years. 

- The first tip that comes to mind is actually what Nancy Ray recommended (which is part of her routine). When you get up in the morning, make your coffee, and allow some time to simply write about whatever is on your heart and mind before diving into the word/prayer. Be still and put thought towards what's really taking place in that moment --- you are spending time with the Lord...not just your bible, not just your thoughts, but with HIM. We so often rush into that space, open up the word and start reading, spew a ton of words towards him in prayer, and wrap it up before even letting ourselves actually commune with Him. We are far too often focused on the accomplishment or productivity of our time, rather than the reality that we actually met with the Creator of the Universe. 

- I would encourage a potential attendee by saying that her soul is far too precious to let the burdens of this world, work, achievement, and approval weigh her down. (What profit is it if we gain the world but lose our souls in the process?) If she is feeling battered and beat up, then she should make it a priority to come to this retreat. There is such an intentionality behind RTR, and I've witnessed God heal and restore in the most remarkable ways. This retreat has served as a milestone in the lives of many women, including myself. It would do her soul well to attend!