Welcome

Abide is a one day invitation to slow down and notice what has been supplying your inner life. You may have arrived hopeful, tired, guarded, distracted, hungry for God, or unsure what you need. You do not have to make the day look a certain way. You are invited to come honestly.

This workbook is a companion to Abide: Remaining in Christ, Bearing Fruit for His Glory, but it also stands on its own. You do not need to read the book before attending. Keep what you write private unless you choose to share it. You may pass during conversation, step out when needed, and return when you are ready.

THE HEART OF THE DAY Surrender opens our hands. Abiding teaches us where to remain. Jesus does not ask you to become your own source. He invites you to receive His life, respond to His truth, and keep returning.

A Simple Rhythm

Receive the teaching without trying to solve everything at once.
Reflect honestly. Your private writing belongs to you.
Share only what you choose.
Listen without fixing or comparing.
Respond with one faithful step rather than an ambitious promise.
Return when your attention wanders. Returning is part of remaining.

Before We Abide

Relationship Begins with Christ

You do not need to have attended another retreat, read another resource, or understand every Christian word to begin. Abiding means continuing in a relationship with Jesus, so we begin by making that relationship clear.

Christian faith begins with Jesus Christ, not with self improvement or a spiritual experience. Every person has sinned and needs God’s mercy (Romans 3:23). Because God loves us, He sent Jesus Christ, His only Son (John 3:16–17). Jesus lived a blameless life without sin (Hebrews 4:15), died on the cross for all our sins, and rose again (1 Corinthians 15:3–4). On the cross, He stood in our place and bridged the separation our sin created. Jesus alone provides the way to the Father (John 14:6). Salvation is received by grace through faith, not earned by religious work.

Ephesians 2:8–9 (KJV)

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

FOR THOSE RETURNING If you already belong to Christ, let this be a quiet return: I trust You again. Keep me close. Teach me to receive before I produce.

Room to Listen and Consider

Nothing is assumed about your background. You are welcome to listen, ask questions, and consider what you hear. Near the end of the day, you will be given time to respond honestly to Christ if you choose.

No one needs to imitate another person’s response or make a decision before understanding what is being offered.

My Starting Point

What am I carrying into this day?

What has been taking most of my inner attention?

Where do I feel close to God right now? Where do I feel distant, guarded, or uncertain?

What would help me become present rather than perform?

A simple prayer for the beginning of this day: