Retreat!

Retreat! is a command you might expect to see executed from an army under fire. This is not always a certain sign of defeat. Often it is a strategic move in order to regroup and come back stronger than before.

The same principle applies to spiritual warfare. In our effort to win the war, retreating should not only remain an option, but should probably be a consistent part of our battle plan. This seemed to be a common practice of Christ during His time on earth. I figure if it is such a key part of the Ultimate Victor’s routine, it’s probably a good pattern to follow.

Retreat! is just what we did. Last week, all FWBIM missionaries in Japan gathered for a wonderful time of retreat in every sense of the word. We met at the Fukagawa Youth Hostile, a location away from our cities of residence and places of work and responsibility.

For physical relaxation, about half of us hit the slopes. About 5 minutes from the Youth Hostel was a beautiful ski slope where we were able to ski and snowboard to our hearts’ content and until our legs gave out. For those not interested in skiing, nice quiet afternoons were enjoyed while the others were out playing in the great outdoors. In the evenings, we had great fellowship around some good old-fashioned board games. At this particular Youth Hostile, the meals are always something to look forward to, especially for the moms, since they don’t have to cook them.

For spiritual refreshment, in the mornings and evenings, we covered a six-part video Bible study series entitled, “God is closer than you think”. As perhaps those of you in full time ministry can attest, it was very refreshing to not only have a break from the responsibility of ministering, but to be ministered to in such a relaxed environment.

Retreat! was a wonderful way for us to come away, regroup, and head back into battle. We really are in a spiritual battle here against “principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” We thank God for this refreshing time to come away and encourage one another in the Lord. Please continue to pray for us as we return to our battle stations. For strength, endurance, and wisdom as we fight the battles in this war in which victory is certain.