I just returned from a wonderful time away at Amazing Grace Farm in Southampton, and I want to share with you how refreshing and encouraging it was.
From the moment I arrived on the property, I was struck with an unexpected sense of peace, something that reminded me of the Lord’s promise that “He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul” (Psalm 23:2-3).
The retreat was led by Mark Willey, a retired pastor from Fellowship Community Church. He guided us in a rich discussion on fear, first helping us define it carefully, and then leading us into a biblical understanding of what a healthy fear of the Lord looks like. As Scripture says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10).
- No fear (as seen in unbelief and disregard for God)
- A dreaded fear of God
- A grace-infused fear of God (crucial) – God’s greatness and goodness
From there, we spent time in Scripture – especially in the Psalms and in David’s life – seeing how God meets His people in their fear. One of the most encouraging parts was considering how the Lord responds to His people with steady, fatherly care. We were reminded of His promise: “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest” (Exodus 33:14). When the Lord says, “Do not fear,” He always says something about Himself.
- His presence is with you (Matthew 28:20)
- His plan includes you (Rom. 8:28)
- His protection surrounds you (Psalm 34:7)
- His power is for you and at work through you (Eph. 3:20)
- His pleasure rests upon you (Zephaniah 3:17)
The time was saturated with Scripture, but also marked by honest conversation and meaningful transparency. We encouraged one another in the shared calling of serving Christ’s church, fulfilling the charge to “encourage one another and build one another up” (1 Thess. 5:11).
I spent Monday afternoon through this morning with about fourteen other pastors from a variety of churches and denominations across New Jersey. It was a sweet gift to dwell together in unity, just as the psalmist says, “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!” (Psalm 133:1). We prayed, we laughed, we wept, and we enjoyed some very good meals together.
I wanted to share this with you because I believe it will encourage you as much as it encouraged me. These kinds of times away are part of God’s kindness in sustaining His servants. Jesus Himself said, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while” (Mark 6:31). I return more grateful, more filled with God’s love, and more eager to serve you.
I love you all very much, and I’m grateful for the privilege of being your pastor.