The Word On Solitude Part 1

I did not write this article but found it helpful to consider the Biblical case for quiet and solitude. After you read it be sure to invest a few moments in the quiet.

Pastor Joshua

What does the Bible say about the value of solitude?

Solitude, the state of being alone, is often considered one of the traditional spiritual disciplines. Many times it is associated with silence. The idea is to be alone with God, to pray, to meditate on His Word, and to simply enjoy His presence. Some people use solitude as a way to distance themselves from the distractions of the world, acknowledge the interior of their hearts, and hear God speak. Being alone can also be used as a time of rest and refreshment.

The Bible certainly supports the value of solitude. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God." It is much easier to “be still" in solitude. Lamentations 3:25–28 says, “The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. It is good for a man to bear the yoke while he is young. Let him sit alone in silence, for the Lord has laid it on him."

We see examples of God’s people practicing solitude in the Bible. For instance, Moses met regularly with the Lord at the tabernacle (Exodus 33:7, 11). God spoke with Elijah (1 Kings 19) and Jacob (Genesis 32:24–32) while these men were alone. The best example is Jesus, who “often withdrew to lonely places and prayed" (Luke 5:16). Jesus, God Incarnate, spent time alone with His Father. We see Him seeking out solitude after performing miracles (Mark 1:35), in times of grief (Matthew 14:13), before choosing the twelve apostles (Luke 6:12–13), in His distress in Gethsemane (Luke 22:39–44), and at other times. Solitude was a consistent practice in Jesus’ life.

-Donald S. Whitney