I am a social person, enjoying the company of others. Yet I find that my favourite hobbies occur in solitude: gardening, running in the woods or sitting quietly by the lake. At these times, I can be alone with my thoughts – pondering the day’s devotional readings or formulating a subject for a sermon. Often during those times, inspiration strikes or I perceive God’s direction.

I’m not alone in this perception. God first spoke to Samuel in the quiet of night. God made himself known to Elijah in the quiet after- math of a great wind, an earthquake and a fire. The psalmist said, ‘Be still before the Lord, and wait patiently for him’. In our busy world, many distractions keep us from listening for God. It is important for each of us to find time each day to read God’s word and then listen throughout our daily activities to hear his quiet voice, which leads us to understanding.

Prayer: Dear God, help us to rid our thoughts of the useless distractions of this world. Fill our thoughts with your voice and our hearts with your love. Amen