✨ Blog: “The 5-Minute Retreat? Really?”
Do you ever long to slow down and go on a retreat, but find you have no time?
Kids at home, work demands, no suitable retreat centres nearby?
Worry not. Having led a retreat centre for twenty years, I can probably help.
How about a valuable retreat that only takes five minutes?
Yes, I know it sounds silly. But I’m quite serious. Let me explain.
Even better — let’s do it together, right now.
🛠️ What You’ll Need:
- Just 5 minutes
- A quiet place — indoors or outdoors, wherever you feel safe and undisturbed
- A Bible — with an appropriate verse (we’ll provide one)
- A notebook and pen — preferably paper, to avoid distractions
Take a tea or coffee with you if you wish.
🧘 How It Works:
- Sit comfortably.
Ensure your back is supported, feet flat on the floor, and your neck relaxed. - Slow your breathing.
Consciously slow it down — most of us over-breathe without noticing. - Pray briefly.
Something like:
“Father, here I am, your child. Please come, minister to me, and refresh me. Amen.”
📖 The 5-Minute Retreat (based on 2 Corinthians 13:14)
“May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”
Let’s walk through each phrase — spending a minute in reflection and gratitude.
1. “The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ”
His grace — not law or burden, but grace and truth.
No condemnation. Not being treated as you deserve.
He took your griefs and sins upon himself so you might be free.
✅ Rest in his grace for one minute.
Ask him to let it sink into every part of your being.
Thank him.
2. “The love of God”
Wonder at it.
This is God’s attitude toward you: deep, committed, unconditional love.
It does not depend on your performance. It is not fleeting. It is not abusive. It is eternal, pure, and trustworthy.
He calls you by your most intimate name.
✅ Rest in his love for one minute.
Thank him.
3. “The fellowship of the Holy Spirit”
How are you doing in that relationship lately?
Do you personally fellowship with the Holy Spirit?
Relax. Invite him to draw near.
Ask him to teach you how to enjoy that deep, rich companionship he desires to share with you.
Remember: Jesus said it was better for him to go so the Spirit could come.
Invite the Spirit to counsel, guide, and help you.
✅ Rest with the Holy Spirit for one minute.
Thank him.
📝 Wrap-Up
Take a moment to jot down anything you sensed, learned, or received during this retreat.
Then simply close by thanking the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit for being with you — for their presence, love, and generosity.
☀️ In Closing
This was your first 5-minute retreat — simple, yet powerful.
And guess what? You can do it again tomorrow. Or anytime. Anywhere.
God is always ready to meet with you. Even for five minutes.
And guess what – you can have a 10-minute retreat if you wish. Just spend 3 minutes resting in what he offers, rather than 1 minute.