The type of solitude which refreshes a Christian soul is more than simply separation from others. Biblical solitude is actually the temporary divine practice of temporarily withdraw from all others for personal spiritual purposes. Sometimes the time of quiet will last only minutes or for several days. However, if one chooses to live in this solitude for an extended period, it usually includes daily prayers and devotions for the Lord. In order to sanctify the Lord, solitude is also necessary in order to avoid tempting influences.
Solitude has three distinct spiritual disciplines. First, there is the silence of the Word which completes and unites the other disciplines. The Word is God Himself and is our mediator with the world of men. We are saved through the Word, and it is from the Word that we receive instruction and comfort. This also completes the inward disciplines, which prepare and develop disciples.
Solitude is a discipline to concentrate and pray. Without prayer, the mind becomes captive to worldly affairs. Prayer alone is a discipline which frees the mind from unnecessary intrusion and distractions. It is a discipline which alone preserves and builds confidence and personal power. A solitary place in which to meditate frequently is a discipline which enables one to build personal power.
Second, solitude is the opposite of solitude. In order to gain entrance into God’s rest, man must attain to a sense of solitary perfection. Solitude is a practice which transforms the believer into the type of person who can walk and talk in the presence of God. Solitude will enable one to walk in God’s presence without being identified with it, without being identified with any of God’s creations. In Christ’s time, solitude was a great virtue.
Third, solitude can have a greater influence on our lives than any other virtue. The desert is the very place where solitude is possible; even the most remote desert can provide a lonely place to sit and reflect. The desert is where solitude and reflection came together. The practice of solitude can be a life-transforming experience.
On the 40th day of Christmas, God called us to Himself and gave His son’s a message for which we are to wait. We then left our homes and went to a place which is called the desert. We spent 40 days alone in that place. In that time, we had great peace and understanding. The practice of solitude will enable you to understand and walk in God’s presence.