Quiet Time

The world is so noisy. Have you ever tried to find a place completely silent? Being in complete silence feels odd maybe even eerie. It’s hard to find a place anywhere to experience complete silence.

Mitch Albom in Tuesdays with Morrie explained how his instructor Morrie Schwartz would begin one of his Sociology courses asking people to remain silent. After a long period of time, the students were able to discuss the experience. Most students felt awkward or didn’t know how to react to the silence.

Our body and minds weren’t created for the stress we continually put on ourselves. We need time to let our brain and body rest.

In 2008, I travelled into the Missouri wilderness with two adults and 14 high energy junior high students. This was my first of two wilderness camps with Oil Belt Christian Service Camp. We spent five nights sleeping under the stars, canoeing 15-20 miles and hiking approximately 20 miles. We carried 60-100 pound backpacks with our supplies.

One particular evening we camped next to Blair Creek. Sitting along the bank, the noise of the water was soothing and the campers were quiet. This is the closest I’ve come to complete silence in the world. The week away with no texts, phone calls or emails was amazing and rejuvenated me.

Ways to create a daily quiet time:

1. Schedule a time daily. Keep the time consistent.

2. Find a place to sit free from distraction.

3. Set your intention for your quiet time.

4. Ask God a question. Read a verse of scripture to guide your time.

5. Journal your thoughts. Write down what you discovered.