Purpose: To hear from God, to draw closer to God.
 
Preparing for the retreat
 
Consider starting the retreat early. I've found that if I arrive at the retreat tired, it is difficult to pray effectively. I'm doing my best just trying to stay awake! So, get to bed early the last two nights before the retreat begins, if possible. Block out your schedule well enough in advance so that you can use the day before as a catch-up day. Writing a sermon or finishing a project during the retreat defeats the purpose. So, push meetings and conversations etc. onto other days. Treat that last day as you would if you were about to go on vacation for two weeks. Also, do not miss the spiritual disciples of prayer and Bible reflection, etc. in the days leading up to the retreat. Otherwise, the retreat becomes a spiritual catch-up time, rather than a time of spiritual furthering.
 
Praying during the retreat
 
Listening for God is hard work. It requires concentration and a relaxed attitude at the same time. Nothing cavalier about it. In order to focus my attentive listening, I use several structures, including the following questions:
"What is the next step with you, Lord?"
"What is the next step with my character development?"
"What is the next step in my relationship with (spouse, children, work associates, friends, etc)?
"What is the next step in my ministry?"
            (Honest to God, Bill Hybels)
 
Post-retreat
 
What God has revealed, it is important to carry out. I encourage you to use whatever system works for you to plan out specifically how you will implement what you have heard. Follow-through is part of the silent prayer retreat.
 
You and I do have benefits in pastoral ministry. We have the flexibility and job description to take part in prayer retreats. What a blessing!
 
- Cliff Jones - Country Club Christian Church, Kansas City, MO