Retreat Lesson 2 - Your Relationship

These retreat lessons were originally written for women because I wrote them, with God's guidance, for a women's weekend retreat but I have adjusted these lessons to include men. I hope you learn from them. I know I did. Blessings to you as you go on your life's journey. May you feel renewed in your walk with God.

YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

If you are a parent, think about those first moments you had with your newborn baby. There was wonder, excitement and, possibly, a little bit of fear. As a new parent you didn't want to do anything to harm that relationship. If you have no children, think of your first love or when you first met the man/woman of your dreams. There was wonder and excitement and you probably wanted to spend as much time as possible getting to know your new love. If you are a pet owner, think of the first time you met your new "family member." You had to be excited and full of anticipation wondering how you and your pet would bond. The natural instinct is to protect that pet and there is a yearning to develop a way to communicate so that pet would love and trust you.

Have you ever thought of what God thinks every time we decide to renew our faith or to renew our relationship with Him? Even though He already knows you, it must be pleasing to Him to think that you want to devote your life to Him, whether it's for the first time or the seventeenth time. He is always happy to have us come home to stay.

Unlike human relationships, your relationship with Jesus Christ doesn't change on His part. He offers you the most consistent relationship you will ever experience. "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today, yes, and forever." - Hebrews 13:8. You will not have a friend as faithful as our Lord. "For He Himself has said, 'I will never desert you nor will I forsake you.' " - Hebrews 13:5. Our friends and spouses cannot make that claim. They may show disappointment in you or your decisions or they may have difficulty forgiving a wrong you've done. God will forever offer you forgiveness.

Your relationship with God is personal and unique. Only you and He know the quality and strength of your relationship.

Take time to reflect on your relationship with Christ.
How much time have you given God this week?
How can you make more time for His Word?
What changes can you make to be more consistent with Him?

Devote the next few minutes to thoughtful prayer to renew your relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.