Can a few short days at a Thrive retreat really be transformative?

M arrived in Phuket in desperate need (her words) of a time of refreshment. She had prayed to clearly hear God’s voice, and each day she anticipated exactly how He would work. But each day went by, and He didn’t show up in the way she expected. Finally, during the final teaching on the last day, His love broke through in an unexpected way. He reminded her she is His precious daughter, and He knows her situation. He loves and cares for her deeply, and will protect her in the days ahead. Through prayer, counseling, and teaching, she learned to discern and trust that she was indeed hearing God’s voice. She also learned the important lesson that He does indeed work in unexpected ways.

E was surprised at how just a few days away from her normal responsibilities was so restorative. She had not realized how tired she was. J was pleased to discover it only took a brief time of self-care and pampering to be renewed. Women came away from the retreat realizing they needed to incorporate some of these small practices into their routine.

The final hours were filled with group photos, prayer, hugs, tears, and contact exchanges (email, WhatsApp, etc.). One small group spent the entire afternoon together before late-night flights. They wanted to continue savoring each other’s company. Some made plans to spend holidays together. Others discovered they lived in neighborhoods very close to each other, and planned coffee dates. And some will stay in touch even though they are continents away from each other.

I did not meet one woman who regretted her decision to attend. This retreat was exactly what they needed at just the right time. Their lives are forever changed.