Solitude

There are just some pictures that I look at and feel as if I can walk right into the picture. This one looks so inviting to me. I like the company of those I love. Sometimes, though, I just want to be alone. I've never been a social butterfly. Have always enjoyed solitude. I can envision myself walking down this little country road alone, with an occasional bird hovering in the sky above me and the whisp of a faint breeze gently touching my face. Inevitably, I'd end up conversing with God. The child of God is never really alone.

I'm sure most of my rambling to God would be words of praise as I am always so awe-struck by His creation. Truly, the heavens DO declare His glory. His handiwork is magnificent, mind-bending even. You won't find an evolution apologist on this blog. The proof of the existence of the Almighty is visible to every human eye. Our conversation would soon turn to my pleading with the LORD to protect and provide for my family. I'd then ask Him to calm my fears and ease the anxiety-ridden thoughts that occupy my mind so often these days.

Quiet times are vital to restoring our spirits and renewing our minds. The constant hustle and bustle is too much for me at times.

I never found the companion that was so companionable as solitude. We are, for the most part, more lonely when we go abroad among men than when we stay in our chambers. -Henry David Thoreau

We live in a very tense society. We are pulled apart...and we all need to learn how to pull ourselves together. I think that at least part of the answer lies in solitude. -Helen Hayes

Solitude shows us what should be; society shows us what we are. -Robert Cecil

Loneliness can be conquered only by those who can bear solitude. -Paul Tillich

The Bible says that Jesus longed for solitude at times.

Luke 5:15-16 (KJV) ~But so much the more went there a fame abroad of Him: and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed of Him of their infirmities. And He withdrew Himself into the wilderness and prayed.

Matthew 14:13 (NIV) ~When Jesus heard what had happened, He withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place.

Mark 1:35 (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.

Luke 4:42 (KJV) ~And when it was still day, He departed and went into a desert place: and the people sought Him and came unto Him, and stayed Him that He should not depart from them.

If Jesus needed this alone time, how much more should we need and desire it?