Matthew 6:6New International Version (NIV)
6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father,who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Physical isolation? We may cringe at the thought of it in our ever busy lives. In most of our minds we see a monk being alone in a room or sanctuary. We may even think of being on top of a mountain with legs crosses and arms outstretched and thumb to finger in meditation. Does this sound exciting?
This is what Henry David Thoreau says about solitude, “I never found a companion that was so companionable as solitude.”
We see throughout the Gospels, Jesus getting away from the crowds. He would go to places of silence and solitude in order to make time with his Heavenly Father. We see is especially in the night before the crucifixion as he took 3 of his disciples to Gethsemane. He needed time with his Father.
I think for most of us men, that silence and solitude is a place we have to face ourselves. We need to take time to examine who we are, our fears, our insecurities, and even our sins. You need a place to face yourself.
I have had times of silence and solitude in my life. usually, I am exhausted from life so I sleep, take a nap, and get rested up. When I do that, my mind slows down, and I am ready to listen to what the Holy Spirit has for me. I must say in truth, when I take the time to get quiet and get alone, I always come back refreshed.
I deal with the sin in my life. When that pathway opens up, I am then able to listen to what the Holy Spirit has for me. I get insight from Him, and I get a new perspective on life.
Silence and solitude are needed. As the poet William Cowper put it, “How sweet, how passing sweet, is solitude! But grant me still a friend in my retreat, whom I may whisper – solitude is sweet.”
Strength and Courage
Michael
