Do you have a quiet place?

How did your day start today?

My day started with a to-do list that was as tall as my laundry pile?

My plan to rise early was missed when my son came into the room and said, “Mom is there school today?” I ran out the door to take my kids to school with a three year old tucked under my arm screaming something about a certain dinosaur as I almost tripped over our black lab who thinks he needs to go with me everywhere.

My irritation only grew as my morning continued with the feeling that somehow I was ten steps behind.

I managed to put a few thoughts into a bible study. I did get to pray with a lady in our church. I even managed to write a note of encouragement. And even though I was able to check off several things on my huge list, I still felt irritated.

I knew I needed an attitude check. What is wrong with me? I knew the answer. I had missed my morning quiet time. I was quickly reminded of these two verses….

“Yet the news about him spread all the more, so that crowds of people came to hear him and to be healed of their sicknesses. But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Luke 15:15-16


“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

Thousands of people longed for the touch of Jesus. Yet did he spend all day and night healing and serving the people? No, he certainly did not. Scripture reveals that Jesus often withdrew for time alone with the Father even when there was a huge crowd waiting for him. Notice the word often.


Teaching and preparing for bible study is commendable, but it is not time alone with God. Praying with a friend is a privilege, but it is not time alone with God. Encouraging others is certainly biblical, but again it is not time alone with God.


It is easy to justify all of my serving and sacrificial giving to others as time spent with the Lord. But these acts or anything else on my to-do list cannot serve as a substitute for time spent daily seeking God’s face through prayer, and quietly listening for that still, small voice.


The crowds didn't go away from Jesus, yet he found a quiet, solitary place to pray. My to-do list may not go away either, but I too need to find a quiet, solitary place.


Do you have a quiet place?

Jesus led by example.


Follow Him!

In Him...Chris
Chris can also be found at her personal blog Come to the Table