Spiritual Direction

With

Christopher

Jackson

“It is easier to find guides, someone to tell you what to do, than someone to be with you in a discerning, prayerful companionship as you work it out yourself. This is what spiritual direction is.”

— Eugene Peterson

Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me – watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.
— Jesus, Matthew 11:28-30 (The Message)

What is Spiritual Direction?

Spiritual direction is a space to slow down, talk honestly about your life with God, and have someone listen alongside you. You might bring questions about prayer, a difficult decision, a season of change, or the feeling that God seems distant. You might simply want to become more attentive to God’s presence in everyday life.

Though the name may be unfamiliar, the practice has deep roots in Christianity. Throughout Scripture, we encounter people helping one another listen and respond to God. In the early centuries of the church, people sought out Christians known for lives of prayer, including the desert fathers and mothers, to talk about their struggles and seek wisdom. Spiritual direction carries forward this tradition of prayerful companionship.

The word direction can sound like someone else will tell you what to believe or what God wants you to do. That is not how I understand my role. Holy Spirit is the true director. My part is to listen, ask thoughtful questions, and help us pay attention together. You remain free to question, disagree, and discern your own response.

The name Prayerful Companion comes from Eugene Peterson’s description of this practice. It captures the kind of presence I hope to offer: someone who will walk with you, take your questions seriously, and listen with you for God’s movement in your life.

When we meet, we begin with what you bring. We talk about your experiences, notice what seems significant, and may pause for silence or prayer. There is no lesson to complete or set of right answers. You do not have to be a minister, feel especially spiritual, or have your faith figured out. Your ordinary life is a welcome place to begin.

What might it be like to have a regular space to pause and notice God’s presence in your life, with someone listening alongside you?

If you’re curious, I’d be glad to meet for a free exploratory session. We can talk through your questions and see whether spiritual direction feels like a good fit for you.

 FAQs

Let’s Talk About What God Is Doing

  • 1:1 Spiritual Direction

    One-on-one spiritual direction is for those longing for a deeper understanding of their spiritual journey and a confidential space to explore their faith.

    During our time together, you will be guided on a personal and transformative exploration of your relationship with God. In this sacred space, you will have the undivided attention of a prayerful companion who will listen attentively and help you discern the movement of Holy Spirit in your life. Together we will dive into self-reflection and prayer to find rest in God’s loving presence. In this space we will make room for God to nurture your soul, give clarity, and draw you closer to the divine presence of God.

  • Group Spiritual Direction

    Spiritual direction can be a transformative experience for a community of like-minded individuals on a communal spiritual journey. The practice of group spiritual direction is ideal for church groups, nonprofit leaders, or a group of spiritual friends.

    In group direction, you will find meaningful conversations, mutual support, and shared exploration. You will be provided with a safe and nurturing space, you will engage in authentic dialogue, heartfelt prayer, and reflective exercises that will deepen your spiritual awareness and provide fresh insights. Experience the power of shared wisdom as you listen and are listened to, discovering the divine presence in your own life and the stories of others. Embrace the transformative potential of community as you embark on a journey of spiritual growth and connection.

  • Retreats

    Spiritual direction retreats are for individuals or groups who are seeking a respite from the busyness of life and to reconnect with the innermost self and deepen spiritual connections.

    Spiritual direction retreats offer a sanctuary for reflection, rejuvenation, and renewal. Through a carefully curated program of guided meditations, contemplative practices, sacred rituals, and thoughtful teachings, you will be guided toward a deeper encounter with God. Whether you are seeking inner healing, looking for clarity, or simply yearning for a deeper connection to God’s presence, a spiritual direction retreat can be customized to meet your personal or group’s needs.


A little Bit About Me

I’m Chris Jackson, a spiritual director in Searcy, Arkansas, where I live with my wife, Morgan, our daughter, Abigail, and our two dogs, Buddy and Kacey. I meet with people locally and online, making space to slow down, bring honest questions, and notice what God is doing in everyday life.

My path to spiritual direction has taken me through congregational ministry, theological education, and my own seasons of questioning and change. I earned my Master of Divinity at Lipscomb University and completed my training in spiritual direction through Lipscomb’s Institute for Christian Spirituality. Alongside Prayerful Companion, I work with Harding School of Theology.

Through all of this, I’ve become increasingly interested in how faith takes shape in the lives we actually live. What happens when prayer feels difficult, when our understanding of God changes, or when something that once fit no longer does? These are questions I carry too, and I’m grateful for the people who have made room for me to explore them.

My approach is rooted in the Christian contemplative tradition, especially Ignatian spirituality. I understand Holy Spirit to be the true director. My part is to listen, ask questions, and help us pay attention together. Whether you’re navigating a transition, wrestling with faith, or simply longing for a deeper awareness of God’s presence, you are welcome here.

Outside of work, I enjoy good books, good coffee, time outdoors, and meals that turn into long conversations. Morgan and I love to travel, and these days we’re also learning the joys and surprises of life with Abigail.

If you’re looking for someone to accompany you in your life with God, I’d be glad to get to know you.