Finding Solitude in God's Presence

I'm not sure how many of you got the chance to watch the Masters Golf Tournament this past weekend, but writing today's Fist Bump reminded us of our first visits to Augusta National. Walking down Magnolia Lane and onto the first hole, we thought this must be a glimpse of what Heaven will look like.  

The smells of an early morning spring day, the azaleas in full bloom, every blade of grass perfectly cut, the pine needles in the rough perfectly arranged, the birds singing like a trained choir. Pimento cheese sandwiched on soft white bread! You could feel the presence of the Lord! Reflecting on this, where do you think the presence of the Lord? That place where you feel closest to HIM? Where do you feel most connected and at peace? Where can you hear Him speak to you most clearly? 

"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

Jesus set a great example for us. In today's world, connecting with God is challenging. We look at our schedules, and in between work demands, home demands, sports schedules, and school schedules, where do we fit a deep relational connection with God? When we connect with God, we can really open our hearts to his transforming presence. It allows us to listen and hear him most clearly. So often, we connect in a quick prayer but have several other things going on in our minds. We think there are times when God wants ALL our attention.

"Come near to God, and He will come near to you" James 4:8

It may be a special place for you. It is likely not Augusta National, but it could be a quiet chair or corner in your house. Maybe it is watching a sunset or enjoying the beauty of God's creation somewhere. For you hunters, it may be before dawn in your tree stand. It can be anywhere where YOU and God feel intimate, vulnerable, and connected.

"Be still and know that I am God" Psalm 46:10

Our office has four chairs where we regularly pray together first thing in the morning. During this time, we comment that God is sitting in the third chair (HIS chair) with us. We think of HIS presence and the peace that comes with it.  

As we celebrate Easter and reflect on God's ultimate sacrifice for us, we are challenging all of us to find that special place and time to "BE STILL" and "COME NEAR TO GOD."

When you do this, in the busyness of this world and life today, may you be refreshed, renewed, and transformed as you find solitude in God's Presence. Take time to LISTEN to God's voice and feel his unconditional love surround you.

Have a GREAT week, gents!