Closer through Solitude

by Des Board

The Bible recounts several instances where Jesus sought solitude to get closer to God. Luke 5:16 is a great example that tells us that “… Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”

Solitude can seem like the opposite of getting closer to God but when done correctly, it helps facilitate an environment that allows God to be our sole focus. Luke 5:16 provides some key words/phrases that help create a framework for getting closer to God in solitude and building a stronger connection with Him.

1. Often 

God wants us to get alone with Him often. Not once in a while, not when you have time, but often. Have you ever heard of the Baader-Meinhof phenomenon? This is a phenomenon that happens when you begin to repeatedly see something you’ve recently learned or acknowledged.

Why am I sharing this? Because the more often we acknowledge God in our lives, the more we will begin to see Him. The opposite is always true. If we often exclude him from areas of our lives, the less we will see Him.

The reality is that God is always there, He is constant. We are not, which is why it is necessary for us to get alone with God often. The more we do this, the closer we will get/feel to Him. 

2. Lonely places

A lot of times when we see the word lonely we automatically think of a sad connotation. However, lonely simply means free from distractions, unfrequented or unpopulated.

This is so important when trying to get closer to God. It’s not enough to just be in solitude. We need to be in a lonely place because, if we’re honest, we can be in solitude and still be surrounded by distractions.

There’s a quote that reads, “Distraction is the enemy of progress. In the stillness, we find clarity, purpose, and freedom.” I think this is so fitting because distractions hinder our progress of getting closer to God. When we’re alone and still with God, true connection happens. 

3. Prayed

This may seem like an obvious one, yet I think it’s important to emphasize because when in solitude, we have to pray. In this time of prayer we get the opportunity to communicate with God, express our faith and reliance on His power, seek guidance, lift others up, and rejoice in gratitude for all God has done and will do.

As a result, we foster intimacy with God that leads to a closer connection with Him. We can also experience a sense of relief and comfort, embody a heart of gratitude, and strengthen our faith.

Prayer is not just a list of needs and wants, it is our heart cry – a passionate and honest expression to the one who is over all and through all and in all (Ephesians 4:6).

Prayer

God, it is easy to fall into the routine of busyness and distraction. Forgive me for the ways I have not prioritized giving you my full attention. I want to make space to listen to your voice and to share what’s on my heart. Help me and guide me as I make this effort. In Jesus’ name, amen.