Retreats & Conferences

Dear Victorious,

I have attended many Christian retreats and conferences, and always find them to be an enjoyable break. But I wonder if they theologically sound. It seems that many of them are charged with emotion, excitement and euphoria that fades quickly afterwards. Would we be better off not attending such events?

Daryl N. - Sparks, NV

Dear Daryl,

Sometimes we can only get a clear view of reality when we step back from our daily lives and see the patterns of the world around us in comparison with truth. (It's the old adage of "seeing the forest for the trees.") Christian retreats and conferences, like days of prayer and fasting, can help us quiet the noise of our jobs and other commitments, as well as the media that we are constantly exposed to. they can help bring us back into intense focus on God and help us to have fresh encounters with His Spirit. The real question to ask is whether these events glorify God, are based on His truth and whether they renew us to serve Him.

If you are questioning the value of Christian events, ask God to show you His will in that regard. Pray before each one that you sin up for. Ask ... and wait ... for God's permission to go. Let Him be the judge of whether or not each event has value for you in your walk with the Lord.