Matt H.
5/5
Words can't express how awesome it is at Genesis Ranch!! My wife, kids, brothers and sisters in Christ, and I have been 7 or 8 times for refreshment, relaxation, and to soak in God's presence. There is a special anointing of love, kindness, and hospitality on Justin and Jordan to bring healing and encouragement to their guests. While the picturesque mountains, quietness of the land, and crisp air of the countryside add to the experience, true joy comes from resting in a place dedicated to the Lord among his faithful servants who carry the Holy Spirit in love and deed. What you can expect from a practical point of view:
- Location - A short drive from Knoxville airport through the mountains of Tennessee on well established, non-sketchy roads. It's far enough off the beaten path to create a sense of peace and tranquility but not too far removed to where you lose 2 days of travel just to get there. It's a stone's throw away from Smoky Mountains National Park and 30-45 minutes or so away from the tourist attractions at Gaitlinburg and Pigeon Forge
- Lodging - As you enter the long driveway, you'll notice an unassuming welcome house and a barn. Don't be fooled! My time in the barn has provided some of my most memorable moments of prayer, worship and revelation! Driving past the initial two houses, you'll see an inviting, newly constructed lodge perched at the base of a mountain with bright windows shining the glory of God from within. Entering the living room, you'll immediately notice the superb craftsmanship in every little detail. Think "rustic modern farmhouse" that challenges (and surpasses in my opinion) the likes of Chip and Joanna Gaines. Every room is themed and has various scriptures throughout to encourage and remind you of God's loving presence. There are too many custom details to go into but you'll be amazed.
- Activities - For the adventure lovers, there are challenging trails nearby at Smoky Mountain National park that will keep you entertained and in wonder at the beauty of God's creation. There are also trails suitable for all ages with rewarding views for all fitness levels. On-site there is plenty of land to explore with benches, quiet places, and hiking trails to catch a glimpse of God’s beauty. The on-site view from Mount Zion is unforgettable as you gaze over the Valley and wonder of the Smoky Mountains whose mist reminds me of the prayers rising like incense to the throne of God. In the warmer months, you can be refreshed with, plunges in the river, tubing, go carting and more.
- Worship – I highly recommend experiencing the Prayer Barn on Thursday Nights! They are Spirit lead, spontaneous, and never the same twice. Powerful memories are forever within my heart of healing, miracles, chains being broken, souls being refreshed, words of encouragement given to provide hope to the weary sojourner, the symphony of melodies floating to heaven as each sings their own song to the Lord, and prophetic declarations to overcome doubts and fears and reassure us of God’s love.
- Heart Ministry – Part of the vision for Genesis Ranch was not only to provide a place of rest, relaxation, and restoration but also to set people free from addictions, fears, doubts insecurities, identity or sexual challenges, and other lies. I can personally testify to the Lord using Justin and his gifting to set me free from various struggles over the years. Justin truly has a gift of compassion and wisdom with a powerful anointing to help restore people back to the pure and adulterated love of Jesus.
I could go on and on about Jordan’s cooking, the sweetness of the little treats in each room after a long day, the joy of hiking with my baby daughter on my back, forever bonds established with my brothers, gifts imparted to me in the prayer barn, and the clarity of God’s voice in my quiet time. BUT……you really need to experience it for yourself to create your own, life altering memories. There is truly no better place for encouragement, restoration, revelation, freedom, joy, peace, and soaking in God’s love.
