Pursue the Beauty!
reflections on the intermix of beauty, grace, and sufferingArchive for Solitude
Led by quiet waters
So I have accepted that I am just one of those quiet, need-to-be-at-home types. Like all good introverts, I need time with my own thoughts everyday. And as a writer who desires to be used by God on a regular basis, I know I need to stay home, sip my coffee, and continue tapping away on my laptop, rather than chasing the crowd. Most of the time the crowd is going nowhere fast anyway, and I much rather aspire to be led beside the quiet waters by my gentle Shepherd. – From Two Talent Living
We as Christians must simplify our lives or lose untold treasures on earth and in eternity. Modern civilization is so complex as to make the devotional life all but impossible. The need for solitude and quietness was never greater than it is today. – A.W. Tozer
We who live in the quiet places have the opportunity to become more acquainted with ourselves, to think our own thoughts and live our own lives in a way that is not possible for those who are keeping up with the crowd. – Laura Ingalls Wilder
Desire as guidance
A good bit on spiritual growth can be found here.
Desire, Adele reminded us, can take the form of a positive feeling or even a holy discontent, a holy longing, both pointing to a desire for change. What to do with that desire? First, it might be helpful to write about it in a journal. Capture those fleeting thoughts or wishes or longings on paper, where they can become more concrete and actionable. Once identified, you can seek out ways to connect with God… you may need silence, you may need community, you may need solitude, you may need a time of serving. Your desire for God will help lead you. “You lead me on paths of righteousness for your name’s sake” (Psalm 23)
Stillness
But I still my soul and make it quiet, like a child upon its mother’s breast; my soul is quieted within me. Psalm 131:1-3
The LORD is in his holy temple. Let all the earth keep silence before him. based on Psalms 11:4
For God alone my soul in silence waits; truly, my hope is in him. Psalm 62:6
