Tuesday, July 8, 2025
New Testament Reading Plan: Hebrews 2
The apostle Mark paints a vivid picture of Jesus’s early ministry – It was fast-paced and full of crowds and miracles. . He was in high demand. Yet, amid the pressing needs of the people, Jesus made solitude a priority.
Mark 1:35
Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray.
This verse offers a glimpse into his rhythm, a divine pattern of serving others and seeking the Father. The constant demands around him didn’t drive Jesus. He was led by a deeper need to remain connected to the source of his strength. We should yearn for this same rhythm, one that roots us in God’s presence before we engage with the pressures of the world. It’s a rhythm that reminds us our effectiveness doesn't come from constant activity but from consistent intimacy with our heavenly Father.
Jesus intentionally stepped away from the work of healing to be alone with the Father. If Jesus required time in quiet communion with God, how much more do we need it? His example teaches us that spiritual renewal isn’t found in doing more, but in being with God.
I am often in a season of life that feels non-stop, with work deadlines, ministry commitments, and caring for my family. I tell myself I am doing it all for God, but the truth is, I get too busy to be with God. The enemy doesn’t tempt me with obvious sin; he keeps me busy. Too busy to pray. Too busy to reflect. Too busy to hear from God. Over time, my peace and joy slip away, replaced with unrest, stress, and a deep spiritual ache. That distance doesn’t happen all at once; it creeps in subtly, masked as productivity. But in reality, it is a distraction. And it is effective.
The enemy knows that if he can’t pull us into blatant rebellion, he’ll settle for disconnection. He’ll keep our calendars full and our hearts empty. But Jesus shows us another way, choosing stillness, creating space, and prioritizing intimacy with the Father.
Solitude is about intentional presence with God. In these quiet moments, we hear his whisper, feel his comfort, and gain clarity for our next steps. Just as Jesus rose early to find space before the world came calling, we too can seek those sacred spaces in our day.
Questions:
What noise in your life is keeping you from hearing God?
When was the last time you intentionally chose solitude to connect with the Lord?
How can you create a rhythm of prayer and solitude in your daily routine?
Next Steps:
Set aside 15 minutes today to find a quiet space, without your phone, music, or distractions, and simply be with God in prayer.
Prayer:
Father, thank you for the example of Jesus, who prioritized time with you even in the busiest seasons. Help me quiet the noise in my life and seek you with intention. Teach me to value stillness, to find renewal in your presence, and to hear your voice more clearly. Draw me closer as I make space for you today. Amen.
Series Theme Verse:
Psalm 85:8
I listen carefully to what God the Lord is saying, for he speaks peace to his faithful people. But let them not return to their foolish ways.
This post was written by Monique Myers, a Perrysburg attendee and regular contributor to the Daily LivingItOut.