“When you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private.” (Matthew 6:6 NLT)
Solitary prayer is difficult. We are distracted by a thousand thoughts and worries. It feels like an unproductive waste of time. We get bored or sleepy. In a short while, most of us are ready to give up. This is why church services or other religious activities are more popular than private prayer. We are more likely to show up and pay attention when there are others watching. However, the temptation to perform is also higher when there is an audience.
Humans are naturally self-absorbed. As a result, our petitions are often centered on our needs and wants. When we are with large groups of other petitioners, our focus remains on earthly concerns. We are also more likely to become more influenced by other worshippers than by God.
Solitude allows God to guide us past our obsessive preoccupations. Once we learn to be alone with God for prolonged intervals, we look forward to this genuine time of devotion and intimacy. We are finally able to experience the presence of God. Our focus shifts. We take off our masks. Our souls stop chattering. We surrender. We are wrapped in wonder.
Lord, we want to be alone with You.
No comments:
Post a Comment