I barely get enough sleep, let alone time alone, we often say in this fast-paced, multi-tasked way of life. The idea of a spiritual retreat time set aside for solitude and silence can seem like an unrealistic expectation, and only reserved for those who already live a quasi-quiet lifestyle. Most of us are glad when we get ten minutes a day to read the Bible and pray. But, do our quiet times satisfy the longing in our souls? Are we spiritually refreshed? Resting Place is not about setting a plan for prayer and Bible reading. Rather, its about rest. As early as the first chapter, the reader will see from the examples and exercises that it is possible for the most harried heart to feel refreshed, even if only a mini-date with God while stuck in traffic. Jane Rubietta, author of several books on intimacy with God, uses Psalm 23 to show that rest comes when we sit quietly and unhurried in our Shepherds presence, basking in His love. He is always waiting and ready to speak peace to the rattled soul, whether we have one minute of quiet or three hours. This guidebook will help the reader identify what keeps him or her from accepting Gods invitation, for example, fear, anger, lack of trust, etc. The reader will also discover many creative ways to block distractions, such as singing a hymn as a personal prayer. Even if we dont get enough sleep, we can feel rested when we heed the longing in our hearts, the Shepherds invitation to drop our bags and briefcases, take off our running shoes or wingtips, and stretch out beside the rippling stream of his loving care and protection and provision for us.

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Do you have a hectic life, do you need a rest and just dont know how to work it into your life? What is the cost of this busyness? What are you missing? Jane Rubietta addresses this. She has written eight books with her latest being Resting Place: A Personal Guide to Spiritual Retreats. Jane is a popular speaker at conferences and retreats. She and her husband Rich operate Abounding Ministries, whose mission is to offer people a life-changing experience of Gods love through music, writing, speaking, and retreats. The name of this book is based on the Scripture Jeremiah 50:6 KJV they have forgotten their resting place. We dont slow down and our busyness keeps us from connecting with God. We give ourselves away to people, we are slaves to expectations, and we dont answer a cry for rest. The author admits our shoulds and their accompanying guilt exhaust us. Within the pages, Jane describes the various ways to rest and retreat. If resting involves silence, inactivity, meditation and trusting would you be comfortable resting? You dont need to read this book chapter by chapter. Jane suggests you let the Holy Spirit guide you. Youll find quotes, Scripture to meditate on, ideas shared, questions to ponder, poems, and guides to journaling your thoughts. Subject matter includes: soul hunger, excessive behaviors, need for relationships, the spotlight and solitude selves, depression, faith, anger, giving up control, money, and power. With a list like that, there is something for everyone and there certainly were many areas of interest and learning for me in Janes book on personal retreats. When you make the time and choose the place--Jane has good suggestions for that--Resting Place can guide you through a spiritual experience. Debra Murphy, Christian Book Previews.com