“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10
When was the last time you paused—truly paused?
In our world, busy has become a badge of honour. There are countless things earnestly competing for our attention. Yet scripture invites us into something radically different: the discipline of silence and solitude before God.
Jesus Himself practised solitude often. If the Son of God consistently withdrew to be alone with the Father, how much more do we need this rhythm today?
Why We Need Solitude
Many of us are tired, anxious, and stretched because we have not experienced God’s rest. In the noise of our daily lives, we miss the gentle, important moments where God wants to speak, restore, and renew us.
For the believer, nothing that happens should come as a surprise—when we are staying close to the One who knows all things.
What Is Silence?
“My soul, wait silently for God alone…” — Psalm 62:5
Silence is not emptiness. It is making room to fellowship with the Holy Spirit. It is temporarily stepping away from distractions to be present with God.
When you carve out time for Him:
- God can show you what your day will look like.
- You gain peace because you know what lies ahead.
- Your spirit becomes anchored and settled.
This practice is woven throughout scripture—Elijah in 1 Kings 19:12, Jesus withdrawing to solitary places (Mark 1:35), and many others who embraced stillness as a spiritual discipline.
Sometimes, even while doing “God things,” we must withdraw so we can return refreshed and be a greater blessing to others.
What God Does in the Place of Solitude
1. He Detoxes the Soul
Psalm 139:23–24
Fears, anxieties, and unprocessed emotions rise to the surface—not to overwhelm us, but to be presented to God for healing. Solitude becomes a place to pour out your heart before Him.
2. He Helps Us Hear His Voice Clearly
God speaks in a gentle, still voice. In quietness, we receive guidance and direction because the noise within us settles.
3. He Clarifies Our Identity
Solitude strips away unnecessary expectations and burdens. It reveals who we truly are before God.
4. He Awakens a Deeper Hunger
The more time you spend with Him, the more you desire Him. Solitude deepens our longing for God.
5. He Strengthens Us
Strength comes from intentional fellowship with the Father. The more we commune with Him, the more resilient and spiritually grounded we become.
Why We Avoid Solitude
- Silence exposes what is inside us.
- Stimulation feels easier than stillness.
- We confuse solitude with loneliness—but they are not the same.
How to Practise Solitude
- Start small.
After or before a busy day, take just 5–10 minutes to be still. - Choose a place.
Create a consistent environment where you can unplug from distractions and meet with God.
The Fruit of Solitude
- Less reactivity.
Life doesn’t catch you off guard because you’re anchored in clarity and peace. - Stable emotions.
Your inner world becomes calmer and more grounded.
A growing desire for God.
Your hunger for the things of God deepens naturally.
