Solitude

Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in his ways.
Psalm 128:1

Solitude is a time when we withdraw from the company of others in order to give God our undivided attention.

- Shut out external stimulation.
- Allow ourselves to become quiet.

We need to plan how we spend our time with God. A plan helps us to stay focused.
For example:

Silent listening
Scripture reflection
Prayer
Journaling
A slow meditative walk
Worship music
Singing praises

Experiencing Solitude. Find a quiet place that is free of distractions.

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Mark 1:35

Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, Jesus said to his disciples, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place. Mark 6:31-32

Tell God what you need. Use a simple prayer:

"God, I just want to be with you."
"God, I need your guidance."
"Lord, I want to feel your love."

Be clear about what you would like to receive from God. Be fully present. Give Him your undivided attention. Speak to Him directly about whatever you are thinking or feeling.

Use Scriptures to listen to God. Invite God to speak to you through His Word. Read Psalm 23.
Read it slowly and deliberately, as through you were reading a love letter from God to you.

Respond to what you hear God saying to you through Scripture or in prayer. Speak to God about what you have sensed and felt and heard. Do this verbally or by writing.

Express gratitude and commitment. Spend a few minutes thanking God for his presence with you. Express your commitment to respond faithfully to whatever it is you have heard from him during this time. Close your time in solitude by thanking God.

Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening...