How to Be a Modern MonkSample

Day 5 — Practicing Stillness

The practice of stillness, silence, and solitude isn’t just a luxury for monks hidden away in monasteries. It’s a vital spiritual discipline that can revolutionize our lives, bringing clarity, peace, and divine guidance. As the Psalmist wisely wrote, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).

This ancient wisdom holds profound truth for our modern lives. When we cultivate stillness, we create space to hear God’s voice and receive His guidance. In these quiet moments, we can honestly know Him and allow His presence to transform us from the inside out.

The practice of stillness isn’t just about external quiet, though that’s important. It’s also about cultivating inner solitude – a quiet heart and mind. As one spiritual leader observed, “Silence is quiet without. Solitude is quiet within.” Both are essential for hearing God’s voice and receiving His guidance.

In Isaiah 64:4, we find an astounding promise: “For since the beginning of the world men have not heard nor perceived by the ear, nor has the eye seen any God besides You, who acts for the one who waits for Him.” When we wait on God, we open ourselves to His supernatural intervention.

So, how can we cultivate this practice of stillness and waiting in our busy lives? Here are a few practical suggestions:

1. Create daily pockets of silence: Start your day before the noise begins, or find moments to pause and be still throughout your day.
2. Practice inner solitude: Learning to quiet your heart and mind even in crowded or noisy environments.
3. Wait expectantly: Shift your perspective on waiting. Instead of seeing it as wasted time, view it as an opportunity to connect with God.
4. Be present: In everyday moments – waiting in line, stuck in traffic – use the time to wait on God rather than getting frustrated.
5. Regular retreats: Consider taking periodic retreats to disconnect from the noise and connect with God.

As we embrace these practices, our perspective on life’s challenges shifts. Instead of being driven by circumstances or emotions, we can be led by God’s guidance. We may discover that waiting on God renews our strength and sustains us for the long haul.

As we learn to be still, cultivate inner solitude, and wait expectantly on God, we position ourselves to hear His voice more clearly and to experience His power in our lives. We may find ourselves, like eagles, soaring above the storms of life with renewed strength and perspective.