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TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

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

Read: Mark 1:32-39
Listen: Mark 1

TODAY’S MESSAGE

Jesus spends the day teaching and healing with authority and power. He’s likely exhausted. Yet early the next morning, he heads to a quiet place alone. He places a priority on seeking the Father’s direction and help. He knows this time in solitude and silence is necessary to stay close to the Father and do his will. Jesus isn’t operating on his own. His solitude with the Father fuels his ministry. His friends find him and let him know everyone is looking for him. There are more people to heal and more demons to cast out. Yet, Jesus is clear on his mission. He tells them it’s time to move to the next town and preach.

We need time alone with God too. It can be easy to get caught up in the busyness and demands of life and not pause to listen to God and seek his direction. We can even fill our lives with good things but end up operating on our strength and power. Regular quiet and solitude with God can provide a deeper connection, allowing us to hear his voice and know his will. Jesus knew he needed this time alone with the Father. If he, as God’s Son, needs this connection in solitude, how much more do we?

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Our spiritual discipline for the month is solitude. Find time this weekend to be alone with God. Whether you carve out 15-30 minutes or an hour or more, prioritize being quiet, listening and being alone with him. Read through Mark 1:32-39 in your solitude. Ask God to help you know Jesus and his authority and power in a new way.

2023 SPIRITUAL PRACTICES

Join us all of 2023 developing a different spiritual practice each month. SPIRITUAL PRACTICES are intentional regular activities to deepen our relationship with God and mold us to be more like Jesus.

July is SOLITUDE. Keep track of our spiritual practices at beyondtheweekend.org/spiritualpractices.

Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.