Article: Pre-Retreat

Ahead of the retreat for leaders in Accra and the other churches outside the capital, yesterday was like a pre-retreat for me. It was very refreshing to spend time preparing three of the lessons I will teach this weekend starting from this evening. I was blessed with a quiet environment which made a difference.

The picture that comes to mind is that of a nursing mother who must be well fed to adequately feed the child she is breastfeeding. One of the blessings of getting the opportunity to share God’s Word with others is that you can only give what you have. In the process of “feeding” and serving, we are the first beneficiaries.

The challenge for preachers, teachers, and every disciple is that we need to also study topics that meet our personal needs. When we do, God’s Word comes alive to us. Otherwise, we can spend time teaching others but still feel empty on the inside. This is a balance I must always strive to strike.

A few months ago, I was always on the go and realized that most of what I was studying was related to what I had to read either for my Master’s program or for teaching engagements. It took a friend of mine to help me realize that I needed to find something to study that will meet my personal needs. I went on to spend a great time in the book of Psalms for several weeks after that.

What are you currently studying in the Word? How does it correspond to your spiritual needs at the moment?

*Jeremiah. 15:16; Matthew. 4:4; Hebrews. 5:11-14; 1 Corinthians. 9:27*

Gilbert Kimeng