That’s as poetic as I get. But, my mediocre poetry is not the point here. I wrote this in a time of solitude, a time of rest. Read the poem again and answer the questions. Do you answer no to the majority? I wish I could say I answered yes to all. Our lives are filled with overflowing schedules full of work, school, family and running errands. I often feel overwhelmed with the never-ending to-do lists. It’s difficult to find a couple moments of silence. I encourage you to read God’s Word, pray or just sit in silence. We need to spend that time in solitude. It’s important to set aside that time just for God. No multitasking or distractions.
My solitary times fortify me to listen more clearly and to love better when I am in the presence of others. We are meant to commune together, which means to empathize, to relate to, to be close with. When I take time to perceive the world as it is—and myself as I am—I have more empathy and gratitude for those I encounter daily, be they friends or strangers. I spend time alone to cultivate my own joy and well-being, for the sake of becoming something worth sharing with others.” –Julie Pointer (Kinfolk Magazine)
Maybe you’re the person that loves to be around people all the time. The solitary times will make those social times even more enjoyable because you will be renewed. I challenge you to go somewhere alone and clear your mind of everything, yes everything. Focus on the scenery outside or just repeat a word (like Yahweh or Peace) over and over in your head until everything else melts away.
It’s hard! But, it’s one of the best ways to hear from God. He will speak to you in the silence, in the times of rest. Spend time in rest and trust in God’s Word. Many Psalms end with the word Selah. It means to pause.
Yahweh, help me to find those times of solitude so I may draw closer to You. I thank You for all you provide. Let me see the beauty of your creation and show me Your Love in unimaginable ways. Give me strength in the busy times and rest in the quiet times. Selah. Amen.
Listen to Audrey Assads song Restless
