“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.”
- Mark 1:35
Not every quiet season is a punishment. Sometimes solitude can become a place where God does some of His deepest work in us. Jesus Himself intentionally withdrew to quiet places to pray. He knew that intimacy with the Father required time away from the noise.
Solitude is different from loneliness. Loneliness tells us that, "No one is here. Solitude can become an opportunity to say, "God is here." When distractions quiet, we may begin to hear God's voice more clearly. When fewer people are around to fill the space, we may discover that God Himself is enough to meet us there. Over the last year, I have found myself praying a prayer of possibility. First, I ask God to forgive me and have mercy on me. Next, I thank Him for His provision. Last, I ask Him to bring the people, places, and things into my life to accomplish my prayer request.
If you're in a quiet season, don't assume it is wasted. Ask God what He wants to teach you there. The lonely place may become the place where you learn to recognize His presence most clearly. It is also a place of possibility.
Prayer: God, help me see this quiet season differently. Teach me to use solitude to draw closer to You rather than simply longing for what I don't have. Meet me in the stillness. Amen.
With Love,
Sarah Sherstad
Before filling the next quiet moment with noise or activity, pause and remember that stillness is not wasted time. Jesus made room for solitude so He could pray and remain close to the Father.
Use the prompts below to quiet your thoughts, bring your honest heart to God, and notice what He may be inviting you to receive or release.
Journal & Reflect
Mark 1:35 shows us that Jesus intentionally withdrew to a quiet place to pray. In the middle of a busy ministry season, He made room for stillness and intimacy with the Father. Stillness is different from loneliness. Loneliness says, “No one is here.”
Stillness gives us the opportunity to remember, “God is here.” When distractions quiet, we may become more attentive to God’s voice, presence, and invitation.
- What noise or distractions have been filling my mind lately?
- When was the last time I intentionally created space to be still with God?
- Do I tend to avoid quiet because of what I might feel or think?
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Mark 1:35 teach us about prayer?
Mark 1:35 shows that Jesus intentionally made time to withdraw from the noise and pray. His example reminds us that quiet time with God is not an optional escape from real life; it is a source of strength for living faithfully.
What is the difference between solitude and loneliness?
Loneliness is the painful feeling that no one is with us or understands us. Solitude is chosen or intentionally received time alone that can create space for rest, reflection, and deeper awareness of God’s presence.
Why is stillness difficult?
Stillness can feel uncomfortable when we are used to constant activity, noise, or digital distractions. Quiet may also bring emotions to the surface. Beginning with a few intentional minutes can help stillness become more natural over time.
Does stillness mean I need to spend a long time alone?
No. Stillness does not require an elaborate routine or a specific amount of time. A few quiet minutes in prayer, Scripture, or reflection can create meaningful space for God in the middle of an ordinary day.
How can I practice stillness in a busy season?
Start small. Put your phone away for a few minutes, sit quietly with a Scripture verse, take a prayerful walk, or begin and end your day without immediately reaching for a screen. Choose a practice you can sustain.
What if quiet time makes me feel more lonely?
Bring that feeling honestly to God and consider whether you need both solitude and supportive community. Healthy spiritual rhythms include time alone with God and meaningful connection with trustworthy people.
How can journaling support stillness?
Journaling slows your thoughts and helps you name what you are carrying. It creates space to pray honestly, listen for God’s direction, notice His provision, and reflect on what He may be teaching you.
Prayer
Father,
Help me make room for You in the stillness. When my mind feels crowded or my schedule feels full, teach me to pause and remember that You are near.
Give me courage to slow down, even when quiet feels uncomfortable. Meet me in the thoughts and emotions that surface, and help me bring them honestly to You.
Thank You for Your provision and presence. Guide the people, places, and opportunities You bring into my life, and give me wisdom to recognize Your leading.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.
Message from Kara
In a world that constantly asks for our attention, stillness can feel unfamiliar—even uncomfortable. But you do not have to fill every quiet moment. God may be waiting to meet you there.
Start small. Take a few minutes to breathe, pray, and notice His presence. The quiet is not empty, and it is not wasted. It can become a sacred space where God gently restores and guides you.
With Love,
Kara 🤍
Applying this to your Daily Routine
Take time to reflect, pray, and process what God is teaching you through every season. Our Personalized Prayer Journal was designed to help you grow deeper in faith—one day at a time–turning intention into habit. Many people use journals to revisit verses like these and reflect throughout the week.
👉 Explore Personalized Scripture Products at www.papersunday.com
Today's devotional pairs beautifully with the Green Foliage Personalized Scripture Journal
If you want to grow deeper in your daily life and reflection, these devotionals can help:
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Start each morning with a devotional like this one
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