Making Space for Intimacy with Jesus
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8 ESV
Series: Being with Jesus: Solitude and Silence Part 3
Devotional: 1 of 4
"God has given you an opportunity to enter into a divine appointment with Him."
Those were the words rolling around in my mind as I drove to a local retreat center to spend some extended time in solitude. Words that would slowly move down into my heart, reminding me that I am unconditionally loved by the Creator of the universe. Words that were declared over me in prayer by my wife just moments before as I left the house.
When we say yes to regularly practicing solitude and silence, we intentionally carve out time and space away from others in order to seek the presence of God alone. In this sacred space, Jesus promises to meet with those who will make time for this divine appointment. Truly we can come to Him with confidence, trusting that "everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened." (See Matthew 7:8 ESV)
In solitude and silence, we experience true rest in Jesus. In this place we begin to know Him "who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace." (See 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 ESV)
In solitude and silence, we are drawn into a time of repentance. Under the protection of God's grace and mercy, we can freely confess our sins, bringing them out of the darkness and into the light. Because of Jesus' finished work on the Cross, we are set free from the stranglehold of shame and guilt. (See Hebrews 10:14)
In solitude and silence, Jesus continually transforms our lives from the inside out. Here, intimacy begins to grow as we learn to trust Him as the Healer of our souls. Indeed Romans 12:2 says, "Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of the mind, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect."
In this series, we will explore three things we are sure to encounter when we regularly prioritize time alone with Jesus in solitude and silence: rest, repentance, and restoration.
As you go, consider the appointments that you prioritize on your calendar. What would it look like for you to make space for a "divine appointment" with the Creator of the universe, the One who made you, and knows you better than anyone else ever could?
OnThe3rdDay Devotionals
Devotionals that illustrate Biblical principles in a simple and short format that can be applied to your everyday life.
RECOMMENDED READING
This is an affiliate link. Any purchase you might make helps support the ministry of OnThe3rdDay at no cost to you.
