A Womens Retreat Planning Guide

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

Romans 16:20 KJV

The mission of CTA is to glorify God by providing purposeful products that lift up and encourage the body of Christ because we love him!

W oman of God
Momen ts of Gra ce
A Womens Retreat Planning Guide
2010 CTA, Inc. 1625 Larkin Williams Rd. Fenton, MO 63026 www.CTAinc.com

Permission to make photocopies or reproduce by any other mechanical or electronic means is granted only to the original purchaser and is intended for use within a church or other Christian organization, and not for resale.

Unless otherwise noted, Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Scripture quotations marked KJV are from the King James Version of the Bible. If this retreat planner proves to be helpful to you, we would like to hear from you. Your words will encourage us! If you have suggestions for us to consider as we create ministry helps like this in the future, please send those, too. Send e-mail to editor@CTAinc.com. Please include the subject line: WOGXDR. Or write to Editorial Manager, Dept. WOGXDR. PO Box 1205, Fenton, MO 63026-1205.

Contents
N ot es a nd H elp s f or t he R e t re a t L ea d er
G e tt i ng St a rt e d . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 R e g ar d i n g t he Sm a ll - Gr o u p S e ss io n s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 S es s io n 1: T r an q u i l i- t e a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 E ve ni ng de v oti on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 S es s io n 2 : Fr iv o l i- te a ( M i xe r , G am e s , C r a ft s, o r P r o j e c t s ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 0 Br e a kf a st . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 0 S es s io n 3: B ea u - t e a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 1 Hi g h T im e f or T e a! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 1 R e f le c t i o n a n d P r a ye r . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 2 Lunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 S es s io n 4 : S er e n i- te a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 3 S es s io n 5 : A va il a b il i- te a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 3 O t he r A ct iv i- te a s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Clos ing D evot i on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 N ot e s fo r N e xt Ti m e . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Pa rt i ci p a nt Ha n do ut s
S u gg e st e d Sch e du l e . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 S es s io n 1: T r an q u i l i- t e a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 6 S es s io n 3: B ea u - t e a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 8 R e f le c t i o n a n d P r a ye r . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 S es s io n 4 : S er e n i- te a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 S es s io n 5 : A va il a b il i- te a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Getting Started
This guide will help you plan a simple, two-day retreat for womens groups in your congregation or Christian organization. While intended for groups of from 5 to 35, the material can be adapted for larger and smaller groups. These materials assume a schedule of Friday evening through Saturday afternoon; see page 15. By adjusting the schedule a bit, you may shorten or lengthen the retreat to meet the needs of your group. To shorten it, complete only as many sections as is feasible at the retreat site. You may want to continue the materials that you are unable to complete during the retreat on consecutive Sunday mornings or Wednesday evenings. To lengthen it, consider spending more time on each of the five input modules. Or add more material (for example, additional time for group worship, extra crafts, more elaborate projects, additional activities, or a prayer labyrinth activity).

Details, Details
If you and your group are new to retreat planning, many helpful guidebooks will walk you step-by-step through the details. Visit your local Christian bookstore or log on to your favorite online bookseller and type Christian retreat planning into the search engine. On the other hand, if you have participated in a few retreats or have planned them previously, you will probably be able to think through the accommodations aspects of the retreat on your own. In either case, youll likely want to ask individuals or small teams to arrange for . . . Prayer for leaders and participants before, during, and after the retreat. Accommodations at a nearby retreat center, hotel, bed and breakfast, lakeside condominium, or some other inviting location. Transportation or carpooling to the location, if appropriate. Hospitality, including arranging chairs and tables in the meeting room (unless the facility you use provides this), distributing goodies and retreat favors, welcoming participants, and creating welcome packets. These packets should include information about the facility at which you are staying, the facilitys phone number, amenities (for example, walking paths, a prayer chapel), and pertinent housekeeping details.

Snacksand meals, if the facility youve chosen doesnt offer them. See suggestions in this handbook under the heading High Time for Tea (page 11). Publicity and registration. This group can also make room assignments if your retreat includes an overnight stay. Make publicity easier by using free, printable materials at www.CTAinc.com/FREE.

Program, including coordination of a guest speaker, if you use one; small-group discussion leaders; and music for worship. Program planners will want to consider providing modest, themed thank-you gifts for those who carry major leadership responsibilities for the retreat. For example, the Woman of God: Moments of Grace framed art piece (Item #WOGXFA) would be especially appropriate. See your CTA catalog or the CTA Web site at www.CTAinc.com for details. (Visit www.CTAinc.com/FREE to find a printable bulletin you can use as a program for your days schedule and/or worship plans.) Entertainment, which may include creating skits, rounding up board games, enlisting the talents of a massage therapist, and bringing together other ideas for light-hearted activities. (See Session 2: Frivoli-tea on page 10 for more details.) Leadership for craft/project activities, mealtimes, devotions Most important, you will also need one go-to person who is willing to coordinate the details listed above and answer questions as they arise from volunteer workers and potential registrants.

Goodies and Retreat Favors

The hospitality committee should order one copy of Woman of God: Moments of Grace for each participant. (The NIV item number is WOGXSC; the KJV item number is WOGXSCKJ; see your CTA catalog or the CTA Web site at www.CTAinc.com for details.) These 4-color devotion books will provide a keepsake reminder of the retreat for many years to come. Everyone who attends will need a copy. The content is integral to the program and discussion.

In addition, the hospitality committee should create a package of inexpensive gift reminders for each person attending. A gracious benefactor might want to pick up the cost. Otherwise, build the cost into the retreat fee. CTA offers a number of Woman of God: Moments of Grace themed products appropriate for this purpose, including: Canvas Coin Holder Keychain with Accordion-fold Book (Item #WOGXKC)

Magnetic Notepad w/ink pen (Item #WOGXMP)

Bone China Mug in Matching Box (Item #WOGXCMB)

Mint Tin (Item #WOGXCA)

Most of these items can be purchased by the dozen at an amazing price! If you have a limited budget, consider using some of the items above to create two or three gift sets and award them as door prizes. Draw names. Tape a note under winning chairs or a winning breakfast plate. Or award prizes to each person who traveled the farthest, will celebrate her birthday soonest, and who packed the smallest suitcase. Or simply arrange a variety of themed gifts on each table and invite participants to choose one or two items they would especially like to have.

Regarding the Small-Group Sessions

The materials suggest different ways to select small-group discussion leaders each time the small groups assemble to talk through the materials. These suggestions are intended to provide opportunity for shared leadershipand to provoke some giggles and fun along the way. Some churches, however, may find it more effective to divide the groups ahead of time, choosing from among each groups members one person who has some leadership skills and the faith and understandings helpful in leading the discussion. Starting on page 16 of this guide, youll find discussion guides for participants to use in most of the sessions. You will need to duplicate copies for each person. Although copies are designed in full color, theyll still look very nice if copied in back and white. Each participant will also need a copy of the devotion book Woman of God: Moments of Grace.

Unless you have preassigned small groups, participants will need to form them at the beginning of each session (35 per group). Simply form groups randomly or based on preexisting friendships. Retreat leaders should ensure that guests who have come by themselves or others who need help finding friends during the grouping-up process are welcomed into an appropriate group. Someone in leadership should distribute the discussion guides, help form the small groups, and explain the time budget for completing the discussion guide. Each small group will need a leader to guide her group through the questions and keep track of the time. Other group members carry responsibility for listening carefully to one anothers comments and adding thoughtful, helpful responses themselves. When time has expired, a retreat leader should call for the whole groups attention; ask for insights, comments, or questions; and respond appropriately. If you have a leader whose insights and biblical knowledge participants will respect, and if that person feels comfortable fielding questions and making comments without prior preparation, consider letting her preside over all the small-group debriefing sessions during the retreat. If not, simply frame each debriefing time as a time to share insights. Remember, the main purpose of this retreat is to deepen relationships, to provide a respite from the busyness of life, and to encourage participants in their faith relationship with Jesus. Reserve in-depth Bible study for other settings in your church.

Session 1: Tranquili-tea
Small-group discussion60 minutes Key Scripture Verse: The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17 Each person needs . . . Copy of the discussion pages (pp. 1617) Bible Woman of God: Moments of Grace pen and bookmark set (Item #WOGXST) Personalize with your church name and address! If you have preassigned small groups, announce that and ask participants to join others in their group now. Or give participants freedom to form their own groups of three to five women in each. As you begin this session, distribute boxed Woman of God: Moments of Grace pen and bookmark sets (Item #WOGXST). Participants will use the pens to jot down answers and thoughts during their discussion. They can use the bookmarks to mark Bible passages they find especially helpful or comforting during the conversation. (See your CTA catalog or the CTA Web site at www.CTAinc.com for details about ordering.) If you have enlisted small-group discussion leaders ahead of time, introduce them now. If not, ask each small group to choose a leader, based on the criterion listed on the discussion page. Explain that this person is not the teacher. Instead, she is responsible for keeping track of time, making sure everyone has a chance to participate, and keeping everyone focused on the questions in the discussion guide. Each session, a different person will serve as leader. When about five minutes of the session remains, a retreat planner should note this for the whole group. When time has fully expired, call for everyones attention; ask for insights, comments, or questions; and respond appropriately.

Evening devotion
Large-group session15 minutes Reconfigure chairs, if necessary, for the worship time. Before you begin the devotion, you may want to distribute mementos of the retreat or draw for door prizes. Give copies of the devotion book Woman of God: Moments of Grace to each person. Ask that they bring these to future sessions.

It would also be especially appropriate to give each person a Mini Teacup with Candle and Accordion Booklet (Item # WOGXCN) at this point in your program. That way, if everyone is seated at a table, you can light the candles and extinguish the lights in the room for the devotion. This will help to set a serene, reflective mood. (See your CTA catalog or the CTA Web site at www.CTAinc.com for ordering details.) If at all possible, find a way to include praise music, hymns, or other music your group will find meaningful during devotional times during your retreat. Group singing, especially, will add much to this time of worship. Ideally, a praise team, guitarist, or pianist will provide accompaniment. However, many groups will do just fine with a CD or MP3 player. Having the songs you plan to use cued up ahead of time and making sure everyone has access to the words you will sing are both key to the mood you want to set. Use the Ministry Message Woman of God: Moments of Grace found at www.CTAinc.com/FREE. If you have access to the necessary technology at your retreat location, you might like to use the accompanying free PowerPoint to give participants something visual to focus on as you talk.

Session 2: Frivoli-tea
Large-group sessionevening relaxation, entertainment Key Scripture Verse: A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22 After the devotion, introduce the idea of frivolity by reading the words of Proverbs 17:22 and inviting everyone to use the rest of the evening relaxing. Then call the Entertainment Committee forward, turn them loose, and let the frivolous fun begin! You may choose to use the rest of the evening in any of several ways. For instance, depending upon the facilities available to you, the setting of your retreat, the time of year, the weather outside, and group members interests and abilities, you may wish to offer options like these: Shoulder massages A seminar led by a dietician, nurse, or other expert focused on Healthy Eating for Stress-Free Living A CD or DVD that will guide the group in relaxing; key Christian relaxation into your Web browsers search engine. Skits or a talent show Board games Aerobics, volleyball, basketball, softball Scrapbooking Quilting lessons or a quilting project Knitting lessons or a knitting project An evening nature hike A foot waxing or manicure party Healthful recipes exchange Mission presentation or project

Breakfast
If all or most participants arrive for breakfast at the same time, the leader may want to ask the group to join in prayer, thanking God for the meal. An extemporaneous prayer would be appropriate. Remind participants to bring a Bible and a copy of Woman of God: Moments of Grace to todays sessions.

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Session 3: Beau-tea
Small-group session4560 minutes Key Scripture Verse: Your beauty . . . should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in Gods sight. 1 Peter 3:34 Each person needs . . . Copy of the discussion pages (pp. 1819) Bible Woman of God: Moments of Grace devotion book (Item #WOGXSC or WOGXSCKJ) When about five minutes of the session remains, a retreat planner should note this for the whole group. When time has fully expired, call for everyones attention; ask for insights, comments, or questions; and respond appropriately.

High Time for Tea!

Each person needs . . . Woman of God: Moments of Grace bone china mug (Item #WOGXCMB) Plan a tea party as your midmorning break. This would be a great time to use the Woman of God: Moments of Grace bone china mugs for tea. Use the recipe for perfect tea found on page 3 of the devotion book Woman of God Moments of Grace. You may want to have coffee and soft drinks available also, for those who dont drink tea. Take about 30 minutes or linger longer, depending on the time available. Serve vanilla scones with the tea, if possible. Page 4 of Woman of God: Moments of Grace has a recipe you may want to try. If you use the recipes suggested here, point participants to the source of the recipes in the books they have received.

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Reflection and Prayer

Individual activity60 minutes Each person needs . . . Woman of God: Moments of Grace magnetic notepad (Item #WOGXMP) After tea has been served and the scone crumbs have been cleared away, distribute the participant handout from pages 2021 in this guide and explain the individual activity, following these main points: 1. The next 60 minutes belong to each participant individually and to Jesus. 2. Participants should use their time in any way they believe will draw them closer to Christ. 3. The ideas on the sheet they have received are only suggestions; perhaps participants have a better idea. If so, they are welcome to use it. 4. Participants know themselves and what they need. They should feel free to trust the promptings of the Holy Spirit and their own faith-shaped instincts. 5. If they begin an activity that doesnt seem to work for them, encourage them not to abandon it immediately. However, if after 78 minutes, it still does not feel comfortable, encourage them to try a different approach. 6. This is each persons time to be alone with the Lord. Encourage participants to enjoy their freedom in Christ to use the time in the way they believe will best help them. NOTE: Distribute Woman of God: Moments of Grace magnetic notepads before you dismiss individuals to pursue this activity. Having extra paper for jotting down ideas and making prayer lists will be helpful for participants.

Lunch
One of the retreat leaders should invite group members to join in prayer, thanking God for the meal. An extemporaneous prayer would be appropriate, or repeat the prayer you used at breakfast.

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Session 4: Sereni-tea
Small-group session4560 minutes Key Scripture Verse: I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33 Each person needs . . . Copy of the discussion pages (pp. 2224) Bible Woman of God: Moments of Grace devotion book (Item #WOGXSC or WOGXSCKJ) Woman of God: Moments of Grace magnetic notepad (Item #WOGXMP) When about five minutes of the session remains, a retreat planner should note this for the whole group. When time has fully expired, call for everyones attention; ask for insights, comments, or questions; and respond appropriately.

Session 5: Availabili-tea
Small-group session4560 minutes Key Scripture Verse: I heard the voice of the Lord saying,Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?And I said, Here am I. Send me! Isaiah 6:8 Each person needs . . . Copy of the discussion pages (pp. 2527) Bible Woman of God: Moments of Grace devotion book (Item #WOGXSC or WOGXSCKJ) Woman of God: Moments of Grace magnetic notepad (Item #WOGXMP) Blank envelope When about five minutes of the session remains, a retreat planner should note this for the whole group. When time has fully expired, call for everyones attention; ask for insights, comments, or questions; and respond appropriately.

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Other Activi-teas
Plan a 1530 minute break, depending on the time available. Consider repeating this mornings tea party or choosing another activity from the list on page 10. Those who will lead the worship can rearrange chairs and set up instruments, if necessary, during the intermission. If you will use song sheets or hymnals during the worship time, distribute them as participants enter the room.

Closing Devotion
1520 minutes Begin your closing worship with a prayer of thanks and perhaps two or three songs or hymns of praise. Read one of the devotions from Woman of God: Moments of Grace. Gravity, Tranquility, Flexibility, or Christianity would be a good choice. Then repeat a worship chorus or hymn the group knows well and can sing with heartfelt adoration. Use this verse as a blessing: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you (Romans 16:20 KJV). Read it together, blessing one another in Jesus name. Or have one of the retreat leaders pray it over the group. Thank participants for coming and share any necessary housekeeping reminders.

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Woman of God: Moments of Grace

Its Time forTea Tranquili-tea, Frivoli-tea, Beau-tea, Sereni-tea, and Availabili-tea Friday Afternoon and Evening 4:00 6:00 7:00 8:00 8:15 Arrival, unpacking, relaxing Dining together Session 1: Tranquili-tea (small-group discussion) Evening devotion: Woman of God: Moments of Grace (large-group activity) Session 2: Frivoli-tea! (large-group or small-group activities)

Saturday Morning 8:30 9:30 10:30 11:00 Breakfast Session 3: Beau-tea (small-group discussion) High Time for Tea! Reflection and Prayer (individual activity)

Noon Lunch Saturday Afternoon 1:15 2:15 2:45 3:45 4:00 4:15 Session 4: Sereni-tea (small-group discussion) Break Session 5: Availabili-tea (small-group discussion) Break Closing Devotion (large-group activity) Departure

Copyright 2010 CTA, Inc., 1625 Larkin Williams Rd., Fenton, MO 63026, wwwCTAinc.com. Permission to make photocopies or reproduce by any other mechanical or electronic means is granted only to the original purchaser and is intended for use within a church or other Christian organization, and not for resale.

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Session 1:Tranquili-tea
Unless your group leader has been preassigned, have the member of your group who traveled the shortest distance to come to the retreat lead the discussion of this session. The leader keeps the group moving from question to question on time, following the time budget noted below. Others in the group carry responsibility for keeping the conversation progressing and for listening carefully to one anothers ideas and insights. 1. 15 minutes On July 26, 1969, the first manned expedition landed on the moon. Neil Armstrong, the first of the Apollo 11 astronauts to step out onto lunar soil, named the landing site Tranquility Base. Its located in the southwestern corner of the lunar plain called the Sea of Tranquility. Why do you suppose Armstrong gave the landing site that name? Do you think the name is appropriate? Why or why not? Think for a moment about the term Sea of Tranquility. What do you imagine a place with that name might be like? Work together to describe it, using as much detail as possible. Compare your groups description with those of other groups. What do you want to take from their descriptions and add to yours? 2. 20 minutes Find Zephaniah 3:17 in your Bible or read it from the next page. What words from the verse speak to you of tranquility? Explain. Tell about a time when you knew for sure that the Lord Jesus was with you. What did that mean for you? How did it bring tranquility, even if your external circumstances at the time were turbulent and stressful? 3. 15 minutes Push your chair back from your group and, on your own, think about a stormy situation your Savior has brought you through. Perhaps the event is in the past, but you have yet to settle down and find peace and tranquility. Welcome the Lords presence into that situation in a fuller way right now, asking him to quiet you with his love. Perhaps you need the forgiveness that flows from

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his cross. Perhaps you need insight to move past the frustration or fear. Perhaps you need to forgive some hurt others have inflicted on you. Perhaps you need healing from the stress or strength to carry the burden. Write about it, asking Jesus for what you need. Dear Jesus,

4. 10 minutes Coming back to your small group, listen as a volunteer re-reads Zephaniah 3:17 aloud, slowly, perhaps two or three times. Imagine the delight, the love, the singing described in the verse as you sit back, relax your body, and soak in Gods compassion. What keeps you from more fully believing your Lord feels this way about you or wants to do these things for youpersonally? Now consider the fact that Jesus died for you, that he gave up his life so that you could be forgiven and belong in his family forever. How does this fact encourage you to believe the other promises from Zephaniah 3:17? What new insights have you gained as youve thought about all this just now? Which of these insights is especially helpful or encouraging? Explain. The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17
Copyright 2010 CTA, Inc., 1625 Larkin Williams Rd., Fenton, MO 63026, wwwCTAinc.com. Permission to make photocopies or reproduce by any other mechanical or electronic means is granted only to the original purchaser and is intended for use within a church or other Christian organization, and not for resale.

Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

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Session 3: Beau-tea
Unless your group leader has been preassigned, have the member of your group who traveled the longest distance to come to the retreat lead the discussion of this session. The leader keeps the group moving from question to question on time, following the time budget noted below. Others in the group carry responsibility for keeping the conversation progressing and for listening carefully to one anothers ideas and insights. 1. 10 minutes Our culture, especially the advertising industry, tends to define beauty in such a way as to make it unattainable. If beauty equals Barbie, no real-life woman measures up. Its biologically impossible! When have you seen societys idea of beauty damage someone or cause problems in relationships? Describe the most beautiful woman youve ever known. Tell what made her beautiful in your eyes. 2. 20 minutes Not surprisingly, Scripture sets a standard for beauty thats different from the standard our culture sets. Read 1 Peter 3:34 from your Bible or from the next page. As time will allow, work with a partner to find and read one or more of these Scriptures: 1 Samuel 16:7; Proverbs 31:30; Ezekiel 16:14. Share what youve found or observed from these Scriptures. React to what youve just read. How does it concern, comfort, startle, encourage, or otherwise affect you? If God truly says these things about those who are his daughters by faith in the cross of his Son, Jesus (and he does!), what keeps us from more fully and fervently believing them and living in the peace and boldness these truths create?

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3. 20 minutes Now read the first devotion from Woman of God: Moments of Grace. Its titled Beau-tea and is found on pages 67. You might choose one person from your group to read while the rest of you sit back, close your eyes, and listen carefully. Listen for statements that particularly surprise you or strengthen your heart. How would you summarize the authors main point in 25 words or less? What insights from this reading were especially helpful? What questions do you have, based on what you heard? 4. 10 minutes Think about the words of 1 Peter 3:34 one last time.

What does it mean to you that the beauty Jesus gives is unfading? How does it encourage you to know that such beauty is of great worth in Gods sight? With whom would you like to share the insights youve just discovered from the Scriptures? Share your answer with your group only if you can do so while protecting that persons privacy. As time will allow, now or later in this retreat, write a letter to the person youve identified, sharing from your heart what you want her to know.

Your beauty . . . should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in Gods sight. 1 Peter 3:34

Copyright 2010 CTA, Inc., 1625 Larkin Williams Rd., Fenton, MO 63026, wwwCTAinc.com. Permission to make photocopies or reproduce by any other mechanical or electronic means is granted only to the original purchaser and is intended for use within a church or other Christian organization, and not for resale.

Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

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Reflection and Prayer

60 minutes individually The next 60 minutes belong to you and your Savior-God. Use the time in whatever way(s) you believe will draw you closer to Jesus. The suggestions below are just thatsuggestions. Feel free to use one, two, all, or none of them. If you have a better idea, feel free to use it instead. You know yourself. You know what you need. Trust your faith-shaped instincts and your Saviors direction. If you start down one path and find its a dead end, stop and try a different activity. In short, enjoy your freedom in Jesus. This is your time to be alone with your Lord. Make the most of it! 1. Take a prayer walkindoors or out. If a chapel is available and you would find it helpful, spend time there. List the five facets of this retreat on a blank page from the Woman of God: Moments of Grace notepad (Item # WOGXMP): Tranquility Frivolity Beauty Serenity Availability

Spend 1015 minutes focusing on each of these five, all gifts God works in us as we walk with him by faith. Walk, sit, or kneel in Gods presence as you think and pray, meditating on your Saviors Word to you and dialoging with him about it.

2. Use one or more of the Bible verses cited in the devotion book Woman of God: Moments of Grace. Journal and pray about them. Write each Scripture verse out, considering each individual word as you do so. Listen to the truths the Holy Spirit is speaking to your heart. Respond to his words of challenge and promise as you write out your response. Or develop an artistic response of some kinduse calligraphy to create a mini poster featuring the verse, illustrate the main idea in some way, sketch an idea for a sculpture that communicates the truth of the verse, design a stained-glass window, or respond to the verse in some other artistic way.

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3. Write a letter to Jesus expressing your thankfulness for the moments of grace he provides to you day by day. Reflect back on particular moments of grace from throughout your life that proved especially meaningful. Then write about concerns or decisions you face right now. Raise with him any needs, ideas, issues, or dilemmas that have come to mind during the retreat or concerns you brought along with you. Ask that Jesus will make this retreat another of those moments of grace that have meant so much in your walk with him throughout your life of faith.

4. Read one or more chapters in Woman of God: Moments of Grace. Jot notes to yourself about things you would like to say to Jesus based on the ideas and the Scriptures you encounter. Then use your notes as a basis for your prayers.

Copyright 2010 CTA, Inc., 1625 Larkin Williams Rd., Fenton, MO 63026, wwwCTAinc.com. Permission to make photocopies or reproduce by any other mechanical or electronic means is granted only to the original purchaser and is intended for use within a church or other Christian organization, and not for resale.

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Session 4: Sereni-tea
Unless your group leader has been preassigned, have the member of your group whose birthday is closest to today lead the discussion of this session. The leader keeps the group moving from question to question on time, following the time budget noted below. Others in the group carry responsibility for keeping the conversation progressing and for listening carefully to one anothers ideas and insights. 1. 10 minutes Earlier, we considered the meaning of tranquility. We talked about our Lords promise to quiet [us] with his love (Zephaniah 3:17). Now, we look at a related word: serenity. Just saying or thinking the words tranquility and serenity can calm the heart. Both words contrast with chaos, noise, violence, storminess, terror, turbulence, restlessness, and violence. As you read these contrasting words, what memories or feelings rise inside for you? Share, as you can do so comfortably. Now, think again about tranquility and serenity. What memories or feelings rise inside? Share these as you can do that comfortably. 2. 10 minutes While the words are similar, tranquility more often refers to the calm that comes after turmoil or an upheaval. It contrasts with storminess. Serenity, on the other hand, is often used to describe an internal and ongoing state of calmness despite external stresses and strains. Read the devotion titled Sereni-tea from Woman of God: Moments of Grace, pages 4849. How does the devotion accent the thought of ongoing peace? How do the words from Isaiah 26:3, quoted in the devotion, emphasize or underscore the source of serenity and what it is like?

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3. 15 minutes The memory of storms in the past can keep us from the perfect peace Jesus holds out to those who cling to him in faith. We may find it hard to dismiss those memories and let our Savior quiet our hearts with his mercy and forgiveness. On the other hand, its sometimes even harder to experience serenity when we find ourselves in the vortex of lifes stormsnow! Read John 16:33 from your Bible or from the next page. It may appear at first glance that this verse contains only one promise from our Savior, but really there are two. What are they?

The difficulties and distresses we experience shouldnt really take us by surprise, given our Lords promise in this verse. Yet they often do. Why might that be? These words of Jesus (among many others in Scripture) assure us that he is not pacing back and forth in heaven, wringing his hands, and wondering what to do next about the troubles that have befallen us. Nothing takes him by surprise. He is at work in all of lifeall of it!for our good, as he promises in Romans 8:28. When might remembering that bring you peace, serenity? 4. 10 minutes Jesus says, Take heart! In other words, Be encouraged! When other people urge us to cheer up, their words often sting, striking us as hollow or even insulting. If we could pick ourselves up by just thinking happy thoughts, we would. Tell about a time when you felt anxious, restless, or fearfuland tried to talk yourself out of that feeling. Why didnt it work? Jesus doesnt just say, Take heart; he gives us a strong reason to do so! He has overcome the world. How do you understand his words? What makes his victory so encouraging?

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5. 15 minutes Spend a few minutes with Jesus, thinking about your SQ (Serenity Quotient). Suppose your every thought for the past month had been recorded and you could play back that tape right now. On a scale from 1 to 100, with 1 meaning always frantic and 100 meaning always serene, what number would you assign yourself?

How happy are you with that number? What sins might you need to confess, based on it? How might it help to pause and think about Jesus cross and empty tomb? Write one or more brief notes to yourself and plan to post them where you will see them often. Consider the door of your refrigerator, the bathroom mirror, a pocket of your wallet or checkbook, and the dashboard of your car. Include words from Isaiah 26:3; Zephaniah 3:17; Romans 8:28; John 16:33, or other comforting Scriptures. Include one-sentence prayers for serenity and other helpful, Christ-centered messages, too. Share your favorite note with a partner. Then pray for each other.

[Jesus said,] I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33

Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Copyright 2010 CTA, Inc., 1625 Larkin Williams Rd., Fenton, MO 63026, wwwCTAinc.com. Permission to make photocopies or reproduce by any other mechanical or electronic means is granted only to the original purchaser and is intended for use within a church or other Christian organization, and not for resale.

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Session 5: Availabili-tea
Unless your group leader has been preassigned, have a volunteer lead the discussion of this session. The leader keeps the group moving from question to question on time, following the time budget noted below. Others in the group carry responsibility for keeping the conversation progressing and for listening carefully to one anothers ideas and insights. 1. 5 minutes Think about the following situations, marking each with a Yes (Y), No (N), or Maybe, tell me more (M). ____ Your ob-gyns office calls to say, Last weeks test came back. It was inconclusive. The doctor wants to see you again. Are you available tomorrow at 9:00 A.M.? ____ Your neighbor leaves this message in your voice mailbox, Were planning a block party and want to invite you. Whats your availability Sunday afternoon, say around 2:00? ____ Your friend texts you to say, gf hru? Lunch this wknd? [translates to: Girlfriend, how are you? Lunch this weekend?] ____ You get a letter in the mail from your pastor. It reads, in part, We need a Sunday school teacher for our fourth-grade class. We know you could do a great job. Whats your availability from September through June? ____ Your boss sends an e-mail saying, I have some questions about the project you just turned in. Whats your availability at 4:00 P.M.? ____ Your mom phones to invite, Im frying chicken for Sunday dinner. Whats your availability around noon? Look back at your answers. What factors play into your availability?

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2. 10 minutes Our culture is notable for its busyness. So much so that many experts agree, Time is the new currency. Ask most people, How are you? and theyll answer, Busy! If we arent busy, we sometimes dont want anyone to know! It makes us seem lazy or less important than other people. What are the advantages of being busy and staying busy? of being involved in many thingsand making sure other family members are, too?

What are the drawbacks?

At what point do the disadvantages begin to dampen your enthusiasm for busyness? What clues alert you to the fact this might be happening? Tell about a time this happened for you and your family. 3. 15 minutes Have a volunteer from your group read aloud the devotion titled Availabili-tea from pages 1819 in Woman of God: Moments of Grace. Why do you suppose the author chose to tell the story of her friendship with Belle in the devotion about availability? Have you ever enjoyed a friendship like that? Why did you treasure it? Think back to specific things you and your friend did together. From all those activities, choose one moment of grace to share with your group. 4. 15 minutes Availability makes friendships possible. It makes moments of grace in our lives more likely. It makes it possible for our Lord to open doors of love and service through which we can walk. It makes life meaningful and worth living. Think about the all the ways Jesus made himself available while he served here on earth. Work with the members of your group to list as many as you can. (Skim through Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John in your Bible if you need help.) 26

Now think about all the ways Jesus still makes himself available as he serves you and your family. Work with the members of your group to list as many as you can. (Skim Ephesians, Philippians, or Colossians if you need help.)

How does Jesus service encourage you to make yourself available in the lives of others? 5. 15 minutes Take a few minutes right now to think about everything the Lord has shared with you during this retreat: tranquility, frivolity, beauty, serenity, and availability. During your time of reflection, think about changes youd like to implement upon your return home. Jot these down on a separate sheet of paper. Dont be overly ambitious! Change is difficult; trying to put more than one or two changes into effect at the same time will likely doom you to failure. Then share your thoughts with a partner and pray for each other. Ask for the wisdom and courage you need to follow through. Seal your list in an envelope and tuck it into your Bible, purse, or planner. When you get home, put the envelope in a drawer. Plan to open it six months or a year from now, asking Jesus to work in you those things you cant work out for yourself. Print the date for opening it on the outside so youll know when to do that! I heard the voice of the Lord saying, Whom shall I send? And who will go for us? And I said,Here am I. Send me! Isaiah 6:8

Copyright 2010 CTA, Inc., 1625 Larkin Williams Rd., Fenton, MO 63026, wwwCTAinc.com. Permission to make photocopies or reproduce by any other mechanical or electronic means is granted only to the original purchaser and is intended for use within a church or other Christian organization, and not for resale.

Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

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Notes

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