A set of hazel eyes and a set of blue eyes look back at me. My two Aussies, Hayden and Harley, always wake me up at 5:00 a.m. Their tailless behinds wiggle with excitement. It’s hard for me to say no.
After they eat and settle down, I sometimes lie back down on the couch for a little while before starting my day. One day, as I lay there, I realized there was total silence. I mean no noise at all. No sound from the AC. No sound of the fridge or outside cars. Even the dogs were silent. I’ve got to say it was a little unnerving for a few minutes. I was happy to finally hear the chirping of a bird.
I wonder how often we sit in silence with our Father. Why do we avoid silence? I am someone who loves quiet and alone time. I do not do well with chaos. Having raised three boys, you would think I would be used to some chaos.
Jesus’ example teaches us to find a solitary place with God. My soul needs solitude and quiet time. Without it, I could not hear God’s voice or feel His Holy Spirit.
What keeps you from the quiet? Is it something you’ve tucked away in your heart you’re not ready to reveal to God? Could it be you’re not prepared to surrender in obedience? Maybe it’s an answered prayer you didn’t like.
Remember that Jesus loved us so much He gave up His life on the cross for us so that He could sit with us in the silence. Whatever Jesus has to say, sit in the silence and listen. Quiet is music to the soul.
Joanne Thompson was a teacher’s assistant for fifteen years. Her dream is to take the words of her journal and turn them into writings that will encourage others. One of her devotions will be featured in a new compilation book, El Raah, published by EA Books Publishing. She is a mom to three grown sons and lives in Central Florida with her husband and two spoiled mini Aussies. You can connect with Joanne on her Facebook page, Praises from the Porch.