Logistical Questions about Night

At the beginning of the 'session', we will sing a few songs together, hear a short encouraging message, and then we will be given the space and time to be still before God, surrender to Him, and rest with Him. Because we are all different, we all rest with God differently. With this in mind, you will be given the space for:

1) Fellowship (conversations), 2) Painting (on canvas), 3) writing, 4) read & study the word,  5) sing along to the music or 6) do something practical. This time will be self-directed.

Following this 'surrender' time, we will have dinner together at 6:15pm. 

Resting and being still with God doesn't look one particular way. Rest can actually involve doing practical things, fellowship, or reading as well. 

1) If rest is fellowship for you, feel free to do that!

2) If rest is doing something practical, there are plenty of projects (big or small) that could be done. See Jesse if you would like some guidance. 

3) If rest is reading your bible or praying, feel free to do that! 

While babysitting might be easier for a few people, we will provide a seperate kids program for kids aged between 1-12, from 4-6pm. This will include a space for movie, craft, and games. After 6pm, the kids can join in the adults for dinner. If your child wants to participate in the 'Be Still' Night, that is up to your discretion. 

Yes please! If you can bring a plate to share as we do at Clans, that would be amazing. Be aware there are people with dietary requirements. If you are cooking something that is LF, GF, or FODMAP, please specify on the night. 

Tips for the night

Here are a few pointers if you'd like to paint...

1) Is there a word or verse that God has been laying on your heart recently? Could paint something in relation to that word or verse.

2) Is there any questions or doubts you are currently wrestling with God? Could paint something that expresses that feeling, question, or doubt. 

3) Is there a concept or picture that has been a powerful reminder for you? Maybe the cross, Jesus' blood, crown of thorns, baptism, fellowship etc. 

There is no 'show and tell'. You do not need to possess a creative interest or gifting to do this. The canvas is just another way to express yourself to God. 

Writing to God is a wonderful way to communicate with Him. Here are some tips... 

1) Write a song: The Bible is full of songs for God. Songs express our deepest pain and our adoration. 

2) Write a letter: If you were to send a letter to God, what would you say? 

3) Write a Psalm: The Bible is full of Psalms. If you were to write a Psalm, what would you say?

We all go through different seasons at different times of our lives. Please know the 'Surrender Session' is not aimed at the Spiritually healthy person nor the Spiritually dry person. It is for all people! 

Now, if you are feeling Spiritually dry - whether that's frustration with God, apathetic towards God, or doubting God - the 'Surrender Session' gives us the space to communicate that to God. Don't shut down and pretend you aren't feeling these things, communicate them openly to God.

1) If you have some doubts, why not write a letter to God about where you are at and commit it to God?

2) If you are going through a season of apathy, why not paint what it looks like to be 'spiritually dry' and pray, "Lord, please help me." 

Being in a more difficult season is actually a great opportunity. If you need help, Jesse will be happy to have a conversation with you.

Solitude can be difficult and even uncomfortable for those who aren't as familiar with solitude. So, to help, here are some tips. 

1) Detach: As humans, we have limitations. We do not have an unlimited capacity. Therefore, try and detach from phones and kids and find a solitary place in the room.

2) Meditate: We often read the Word to 'get information'. Instead, we want the Word to 'transform us'. We can allow the Word to do it when we slowly re-read the Word and re-read select sentences (called Hagah-ing), when we pray the Word (called Siach-ing), and when we contemplate the Word (called Nabat-ing). 

3) Listen: God is a God who communicates - often through an audible voice through a human vessel, through an internal non-audible voice lead by the Holy Spirit, and an internal voice from the Word. Don't forget to listen to God's leading. 

4) Encounter: Solitude doesn't change God but changes us. In solitude we ask: "Search me of God and see what corrctions are needed in my life." 

Everyone is different. I (Jesse) prefer to have solitude by myself. While others are different and prefer to have solitude with another. There are no right answers here. Because this is self-directed time, feel free to spend the time as you wish.