There’s a reason they call it “quiet” time

Good morning everyone,

Our theme for this month: “Take care of yourself”

Our Bible verse for today: “Be still, and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10 (NIV)

Our thought for today: “There’s a reason they call it “quiet” time.”

We live in a noisy world. Very noisy. In fact, there is seldom a time when we are not being exposed to some kind of manmade noise (okay, it could be woman-made noise too but you get my point). We are surrounded by noise. Even when you think you are sitting quietly, if you listen closely, you will probably detect the sound of humming lightbulbs, or the air conditioning kicking on, or the sounds of traffic in the distance.

But usually, the noise is more obvious. And louder. In many homes the television is on for hours every day. Or we have music playing. Or people are talking. Or all the above. In short, there’s too much noise, too many people, and too many activities, and all of it combines to steal our peace.

One of the most important elements when it comes to creating the atmosphere for mental, emotional, and spiritual nurture is to have true quiet time. It’s a time when not only are you quiet, but you also take steps to quiet the surrounding environment too. You turn off the television and the music; you put the smart phone in a draw in another room; you get away from people and other distractions. A few years ago, there was a popular Christian movie called “The War Room.” The main character was an elderly lady who created a prayer room in her home. It was a small space devoid of all outside noise and distractions where she could go to sit quietly before the Lord and just pray. Previous generations of Christians referred to such a space as “a prayer closet.” (I know someone who does use an actual closet in their home for that purpose).

Personally, my favorite quiet place is out in the woods on a hiking trail. I hike a lot, and usually by myself. I do so because I enjoy the time alone with the Lord in the deep woods and usually, I can get so far out into the woods that the only sounds are those of nature.

In Psalm 46:10 God is calling us to settle down and to settle in for some quiet time with Him. In the previous verses in that Psalm the writer described a chaotic world with all sorts of noise, distractions, and serious concerns. It was within that context that the Lord said in verse 10, “Be still, and know that I am God.”

There’s a good reason we call it “quiet time”. It’s because it’s supposed to be quiet. I encourage you to get alone with the Lord today in a quiet environment and simply enjoy some relaxing, nurturing time with Him. It will be good for your soul.

God bless,
Pastor Jim

(If you like what you’re reading in these daily devotionals, and if you would like more content from Oak Hill Baptist Church, join us on Sundays at 10:00, in-person if you are nearby or, if you are geographically distant or if you just can’t make it, online at www.YouTube.com/@oakhillbaptistcrossville

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