Less is More: Seeking Clarity in the Chaos

In life as men, we face relentless pressure and expectations. Even the good things we’re told to chase – success, better jobs, or impact – can overwhelm us. More isn’t always better! Even Notorious B.I.G. knew – more money = more problems.

We don’t need more. That’s the lie at the heart of the battle for our hearts, minds, and souls as men: “More of success, possessions, or achievements will fill you, fix you, validate you.” But the pursuit of more can actually be opposed to our ability to seek Jesus’ face, know His heart, and see and follow His Way.

What we need is less. Less pressure, less expectations, less performance, less shame, less distractions.

And if an argument could be made for more of anything in our lives as men, I’d make it for more clarity. Clarity that brings Jesus into focus. Clarity brings wisdom, peace, patience, perspective, and the ability to see who God is and what He is doing in our lives. Clarity that silences the noise so we can hear His “still small voice” (1 Kings 19:12).

Just as God met Adam in the Garden, Abraham when he walked away from everything he knew, Jacob in the dead of night, Joseph in the dungeon, Moses in the Tabernacle, David in the fields watching sheep, Daniel in his prayer room, Elijah on the mountainside, Zechariah in the holy of holies, Nathanael under the fig tree alone with his thoughts, and Jesus when He would sneak away from the crowds, noise, and distractions – He wants to meet us where we leave the crushing weight of “more” behind, and rest, wait, and seek Him.Sometimes we need less of everything else to open our eyes, ears, and hearts to “be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).

Imagine a mason jar filled with dirt, rocks, and sand. Add water, seal it, and shake it up. The water turns cloudy, impossible to see through. But set it down, let the sediment settle, and soon the water clears – you can see straight through. That’s what this retreat is designed to be: a time to step away, be still, let the upheaval (external and internal) settle at the feet of Jesus, and gain clarity. It’s the gift of vision for our lives as men – without it, we’re like the blind leading the blind (Luke 6:39).

As we prepare for this weekend, let’s draw from the story of Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42). Martha was distracted by all the preparations and busyness, pulled in a million directions, finding her value in doing and accomplishing. But Mary chose to sit at Jesus’ feet, listening and being present with Him – and Jesus said she had chosen what is better. As men, we often identify with Martha, defining ourselves by our capacity, achievements, and constant action. This retreat calls us to stop, to choose the better thing: settling at Jesus’ feet in stillness and surrender.

Guys’ Retreat Details

We’re thrilled you’re joining us for the upcoming weekend retreat! Below are the details to help you prepare.

When

• Arrival: Anytime after 4:00 PM on Friday. The retreat starts with dinner together at 6pm. Do not miss it!
• Departure: Wraps up around 1:00 PM on Sunday (note: checkout is at 10:00 AM). We will end the retreat with a lunch together in Grants Pass at Taprock for those who would like to join us. This meal is not paid for in your retreat cost.

Where

Galice Resort

• Directions:
  • Take Exit #61 (Merlin) from I-5 South or North.
  • Turn left at the stoplight onto Merlin Rd, which becomes Galice Rd after about 7 miles (at Mile Marker 1).
  • Check-in is between Mile Markers 11 and 12, marked by a “This is Galice” sign.

What to Bring

• Sleeping bag or bedding
• Outdoor clothing for activities (Saturday forecast: sunny, ~70°F)
• Physical Bible, journal, and pen

Note: There’s no cell service (a great opportunity to unplug), but landlines are available in each lodging. Let’s intentionally set aside technology for this retreat.

What to Expect

• Lodging: We’ll be split across two venues, each with a cooking team and a leader for worship.  For the most part we will be sharing rooms with each other.
• Focus: Slow down, create space, and let your heart settle through time alone and with others.
• Activities: Saturday will include group activity options and dedicated time for personal solitude.
• Intention: Come ready to find rest, direction, and hope.

Food

Please inform us of any dietary needs, and we’ll do our best to accommodate.

Questions? Contact Andy at (541) 326-6477.

We look forward to a meaningful weekend together!

To help prepare your hearts, I invite you to listen to the song “Be With Me” by Bryan & Katie Torwalt. Let its message sink in: that we don’t need Jesus to do a thing; His presence and love are enough. Begin settling now, opening your hearts to clarity, rest, and His voice as you anticipate our time together.

Be With Me by Bryan & Katie Torwalt