The Importance of Quiet

I think about how lonely Paul was and how loneliness was almost a catalyst for him to love God even more.

We itch when we're alone or claim we crave it, when really, it's an allergy that's hard to shake.

Alone means having to hear our thoughts.

And this week was a little lonely for me. I had a good chat during weekly coffee with two of my closest friends, but two of my other engagements were rescheduled, and I found myself craving the noise, the laughter, the closeness with friends.

But God used this week to remind me that quiet time with Him is important, too. It allows me to process all that's happening and take stock of what's pivotal this season:

• Spending worship time together as a family.
• Embracing peaceful Sundays with our daughter and her boyfriend.
• Keeping in touch with our people.
• Making plans to visit with family.
• Praying and planning a ministry with my husband and praying over those we'll eventually get to meet (and hopefully help) through God's grace.
• Taking moments to give Him gratitude for all He's given me, all I don't deserve.

I know things will get louder and start to edge on busy again, and I know He's preparing my heart and head for it. So for now, I'll rest here, my head against His chest, embraced in His peace.