At first, solitude may feel monotonous or like a heavy burden. If you patiently practice it, in time you will know the benefits of solitude; it will be close friend. Then your soul has developed an important spiritual affection. If we don’t persevere in solitude until it becomes natural for us then it will always feel like an unpleasant task.
One of the important benefits of solitude is that we learn to take our sins seriously and view them as God does. If we tend to overlook our sins, solitude gives us time to feel the proper remorse. Every sin is a sin against a relationship. Should God grant us spiritual sweetness if we are not remorseful about our sins?
In solitude we remember that the distractions of the world will all turn to dust.
In solitude we have time to fully absorb God’s word. Solitude and the word equip us to minister to others. Does it please God if we minister to others but neglect our own spiritual health? Do we seek to influence others but fail to give God time to influence us?
One of the best benefits of solitude is that it fortifies us against all the worldly influences constantly pressing in on us. They come from every direction, even when least expected. If we have developed a heart bonded to God – through solitude – we will find strength to resist the small temptations that present themselves each day.
In solitude we remember that the distractions of the world will all turn to dust. They are just pointless pursuits. Worldly distractions rob us of our peace. In solitude we find the deep peace we long for, even if we find it just one step at a time.
Considering all the benefits of solitude, can you afford to neglect it? What is your plan for practicing solitude?
This post is adapted from chapter twenty of the classic The Imitation of Christ.
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