Your Life, Your Choice: Experiencing Solitude
Your Life, Your Choice: Experiencing Solitude
Having seen the importance of solitude in listening to God effectively, how can we make the most of such times? Here are some simple steps to guide us:
Find a quiet place: Jesus himself recognised the importance of finding the right place to be alone with his Father: ‘Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.’ Mark 6:31-32. Like Jesus, we need a place set apart for meeting with God which is quiet and free from distractions eg a set room or special chair. Otherwise we can be pulled away by the desire to use our time in other ways. Why not personalise the space with something to remind you of God’s presence? Try using a candle or a picture.
Quiet yourself in God’s presence: Too often we rush into our time with God; take a few moments to quiet yourself by deep breathing and attuning to his presence.
Tell God about your needs: Speak to God about your current needs eg encouragement, forgiveness, guidance or the reassurance of his love.
Focus on Scripture: Approach Scripture prayerfully, inviting God to speak to you. Read the passage several times, slowly and deliberately. Take notice of any words and phrases that stand out, as well as the thoughts or emotions you experience.
Be fully present: It is important to give God your undivided attention. Being fully present involves being true to ourselves by acknowledging our thoughts and feelings eg anger, gratitude, boredom, joy etc. It also involves knowing what to do with distractions. If you are distracted, make a list of your concerns and return to them later. Don’t forget that wandering thoughts can be promptings of the Holy Spirit, showing us where we need to be talking with God.
Respond to what God is saying: Speak to God about what you are sensing, feeling and hearing, either directly or by writing these things down in a journal.
Express gratitude and commitment: Close your time of solitude by thanking God for his presence with you. Talk with him about how you might respond to what you have heard from him – and then do it!
Ed: This may be helpful in encouraging readers to ‘practise the presence of God’ each day. Some find a structured approach to reading structure – Rev. Marlene can help find a suitable guide. This accompanies, and does not replace, time to be alone with God.