The Thriving Family

Testimonial: Rest And Renewal Through Healthy Boundaries

The Thriving Family

Show Notes

Welcome to The Thriving Family, a Focus on the Family Canada podcast.

Today’s episode is a powerful testimonial of healing through rest and boundaries. When Dave went to Kerith Ministry Leaders Retreats with his wife, Staci, he thought everything was fine. As a rural pastor and father of five, he knew he was tired but believed he just needed a breather. Once at the retreat centre, though, Dave realized how truly exhausted he was. The name “Kerith” comes from First Kings 17 when the Lord sent Elijah to the Kerith Ravine after he made a prophetic declaration to the kingdom of Ahab. God knew Elijah’s calling would consume his energy and leave him weary, so he provided him times of rest, solitude, and renewal. Like its biblical namesake, Focus on the Family Canada's Kerith Retreats values this stillness and provides care to those who are weary. These retreats are offered at our Canadian retreat centres in Alberta, Manitoba, and Ontario. Now, let’s hear from Dave.

Episode notes:

Kerith Retreats Ministry Retreats www.kerithretreats.ca

Stress and Burnout digital booklet https://info.focusonthefamily.ca/stress

.Work-Life Balance digital booklet

Understanding Healthy Boundaries digital booklet https://info.focusonthefamily.ca/understanding-healthy-boundaries-pdf

Free, one-time consultation with a registered counsellor at Focus on the Family Canada over the phone. Give our head office a call at 1-800-661-9800 to request a consult.

© 2023 Focus on the Family (Canada) Association. All rights reserved.

More from The Thriving Family

Oct 20, 2026

While addiction is a tragic cycle for the individual who suffers from the disease as well as for their loved ones, these seemingly hopeless cycles can be broken and replaced with hope and healing.

Oct 13, 2026

Welcome to The Thriving Family: a Focus on the Family Canada podcast. I’m your host, Jean-Paul Beran. This is the space where family, faith, and culture intersect. Whether you’re new to the show or have followed since the beginning, I’m so glad you’re here.

Oct 13, 2026

God’s heart is with the brokenhearted, and that includes those who are struggling with the pain of divorce.

Sep 15, 2026

Esther plays a pivotal role in the Bible. But who is the woman behind the story?

Sep 8, 2026

Unexpected pregnancies can leave women and their partners with questions, fears, and feelings of isolation. Today’s guest saw this, which is why she’s so passionate about her role in which she walks alongside those who need this support.

See all episodes →