Overcoming Apprehension
By Betty Lea --
Each year our retreat team gets together and chooses a theme that we feel would encourage our women. October 5-6 is our Women’s Retreat with the theme “Joy”!
I have been to many retreats in the past with Greater Portland Bible Church. I can remember just how uncomfortable I was at my first retreat. I (being an introvert) had to think of all aspects of the retreat, as I was apprehensive about attending. I had all kinds of self-inflicted questions...
Where or who would I share a room with?
What would the activities be?
Who will I relate to, and will I be accepted?
When the retreat weekend came, I realized that sharing a room turned out to be super comfortable as the three other ladies had similar concerns, and we all put each other at ease. We started the weekend as acquaintances, and, when the weekend was over, we were friends. I got to know these women on a deeper level, sharing things we never would have if we had not shared rooms. This opportunity started a special bond then and continues today.
The activities at the retreat were not mandatory. What I found out was by participating it strengthened my confidence, and I found it was very enjoyable and fun.
As far as my fear of not being accepted. Well, each retreat is planned and prayed about to have an intentional environment. One which hopes to create a place that is God-centered and full of fun, laughter and relaxation. The time we had together to worship our Lord, listen to wonderful speakers, free time to do crafts, games and outside exploring God’s nature, fed my soul. God was found in all these areas at retreats. The retreat team tries their best to allow each woman to experience His character, love and grace, however that may look individually.
I am looking forward to the Aldersgate Retreat Center in Turner, Oregon, just an hour from Portland, next weekend. I don’t know about you, but I am always open to more JOY in my life! I am looking forward to what God has to say to us ladies about how to be more purposeful to live out His joy in our daily walk with Him. I also look forward to getting to know the women of GPBC in a deeper way and changing those relationships from acquaintances to friends.
1 Peter 1:8
Even though you have not seen Him, you love Him. Though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him. You are filled with a glorious joy that can't be put into words.