How to Slow Down and Simplify Your LifeSample

Invest in Solitude

Life has a way of keeping our minds constantly busy. Planning for the future, thinking about work projects, worrying what others think of us, social media, and entertainment can keep our mind going all day long.

It’s no wonder so many people feel exhausted when our minds are running mental and emotional marathons every day.

So how do we find relief? One way is to practice solitude.

On multiple occasions in the Bible, we see Jesus intentionally choose to take a break and spend time alone with God. Why? Because He knew how valuable it can be. Spending distraction-free time alone gives our mind space to heal, reflect, and hear from God. And if Jesus prioritized solitude, we should too.

We practice solitude by taking a break from day-to-day activities, finding a place we can be alone, and allowing our minds to unwind and simply dwell on God’s loving character.

This time on your own can last a few minutes, an hour, or several days, depending on what works best for you and your season of life.

Solitude can also be a helpful practice when we need direction in life. In today’s Scripture, you’ll see that Jesus spent time in solitude right before choosing the 12 people He’d spend most of His time with for the next three years.

It’s likely that Jesus spent His time of solitude asking God for wisdom and direction, and being away from others allowed Him to listen to God’s voice in a distraction-free environment.

It’s hard to take time to pursue solitude. But it’s much harder to live in a constant state of mental and emotional exhaustion.

So, find a time this week to unplug for a little while, and do your best to stop thinking about the task you could be accomplishing, or the worries you could be obsessing over. Instead, simply pause and ask God to help your mind heal so it can focus on the right things.

Pray: Dear God, please help me regularly find distraction-free time to invest with You. As I seek solitude, bring me greater peace in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Challenge: Simplify your life by taking time to let your mind recover. Find some time to practice solitude, even for a few moments. Ask God to help clear your thoughts so you can focus on Him.