I have learned to enjoy the beauty of silence. It is an area where I have grown in the last few years. I normally enjoy music playing in the background whenever possible; at home, in the car, and when I exercise. But recently, I have felt convicted to lean into silence. I am embracing the posture of silence to foster relaxation, inner peace, and to give space for the whispers of the Holy Spirit.
In our society, we have constant distractions around us. From notifications on our phones or smartwatches to pop-up windows on our computers. We are constantly bombarded with noise everywhere we go. Most restaurants and stores play music, which can make conversation challenging at times. We listen to podcasts or music while we exercise, and we have the news playing in the background while we work around the house.
Constant noise keeps us from listening to our own thoughts. That may be why we allow it, because we don’t want to think about areas that bring us pain or unrest. But then we lie down to sleep at night and we can’t settle our minds. If we haven't had process time during the day, our subconscious mind needs to work during the night and interrupt our sleep with dreams or sleeplessness.
Jesus invited His disciples to share times of solitude (group solitude) with Him. “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
Psalm 62:1-2, "I wait quietly before God, for my victory comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will never be shaken."
Following in the ways of Jesus is always best. His example of pursuing quiet and rest is something that really speaks into our fast-paced culture, of performance and frenzy. If Jesus himself needed this, how much more do we need it?
Ralph Waldo Emerson: "Let us be silent that we may hear the whisper of God."
Have you ever tried to press into silence? It could totally transform your life! It did mine!
I used to lead silent retreats. After your mind and body gets accustomed to the silence, the holy quiet becomes balm for noise-weary souls! I loved leading others into the God breathed silence that I loved. Many of my colleagues annually went on 30 days of silent retreat at Saint Mary’s by the Sea retreat house. I’ve never made it that long but hope to some day!
ReplyDeleteOh that sounds pretty fabulous. Wonder if I could make it for 30 days. Thanks for sharing.
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