In solitude and silence, we discover our true self, a life hidden with Christ in God.
God’s greatest desire is for us to be with him first, and then as we experience his supernatural healing and love, we, over time, start to become like him. God invites us to be in God for the world, not to be in the world for God.
READ: Matthew 11:29-30
“Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”
DISCUSS:
Do you have any personal time for rejuvenation? If so, what are things you do during that time? If not, how could the lack of solitude be affecting your spiritual, mental, and physical health?
READ: Isaiah 30:15
“This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: ‘Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it.’”
DISCUSS:
What areas in your life have been cluttered by the chaos of the world around you? Do you think it has affected your peace and/or your relationship with Jesus?
Is there anything else that stood out to you this week in regards to your own practice of solitude?
Jesus, You are in the storm and You are the source of our peace. Teach us to slow down and set apart time to present our minds, bodies, and spirits as healthy vessels for You. Thank You for Your desire to see us nurtured, whole, and healed. In Your name we pray, Amen.
This week, be intentional with your alone time and practice solitude for the sake of a healthy relationship with Jesus and yourself:
Slow down: Find a moment in your schedule for just you and then a moment for Him. (Examples: a self-care day, a walk or run, a prayer walk, etc.)
Listen: Take 15 minutes each day to simply listen and be still with Jesus.
Breathe: When moments come that seem overwhelming, breathe in and breathe out His presence with a worship song, Scripture, or a reminder of what He has spoken to you.
Rest and Rejuvenate: Make time for rest and rejuvenation. (Weekly, monthly, quarterly.)
Practice Consistency: Create space in your schedule to practice solitude consistently.
Solitude is not escaping the world—it is learning to be with Jesus so that we can return to the world transformed by His presence.