Rhythms of Solitude and Silence

By Rick Bayer, September 19, 2021

At once the Spirit sent him out into the wilderness, Mark 1:12 NIV

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Mark 1:35 NIV

Be still, and know that I am God Psalm 46:10

1. Be still by practicing

Without solitude it is virtually impossible to live a spiritual life. Henri Nouwen

Loneliness is inner emptiness. Solitude is inner fulfillment. Richard Foster

But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer Luke 5:16 NLT

Be still by practicing

Two types of silence to experience:

1. silence

2. silence

In silence we focus on

In silence it's okay to be

In silence we are reminded

Questions for personal reflection and/or Discipleship Group:

Opener:

  • Do you practice a rhythm of solitude and silence regularly? Why or why not?

Go to the Source:

  • Read Psalm 46:10.
  • What does the Lord impress upon you from this verse?
  • Read about the rhythm of Jesus of withdrawing in solitude: i.e. Mark 1:12, 1:35, 6:32, Luke 5:16, etc.
  • What would it look like for you to have such a pattern in your own life?

Live it out:

  • What step could you take to begin practicing external silence so you could commune with your heavenly Father?
  • What is your time and place to do this?