“Solitude well practiced will break the power of busyness, haste, isolation, and loneliness. You will see that the world is not on your shoulders after all.
Your will find yourself, and God will find you in new ways.
Silence also brings Sabbath to you.
It completes solitude, for without it you cannot be alone.
Far from being a mere absence, silence allows the reality of God to stand in the midst of your life.
God does not ordinarily compete for our attention.
In silence we come to attend.
Lastly, fasting is done that we many consciously experience the direct sustenance of God to our body and our whole person.”
― Dallas Willard, who died this past week, wrote several books including The Great Omission: Reclaiming Jesus’ Essential Teachings on Discipleship where this quote originates.
I too thought this quote said it so well. Gave me lots to ponder too. Thanks for stopping by
I’ve always said that silence is one of the most beautiful sounds of all. Thank you for sharing this this part of the quote struck me: – I loved it: “
Silence also brings Sabbath to you.
It completes solitude, for without
it you cannot be alone”
Doesn’t surprise me you know of Dallas Willard too. We do read much of the same type of writings. I have several of his books so when I saw the announcement that he had died, it sadden me. But I am sure he is rejoicing and praising and singing in heaven!
Thanks for stopping by Rachel. I have been thinking lately how linked solitude and silence are and when they are practiced consistently, how wonderful the blessings.
I know I hunger for silence even now with the kids grown up. Way too much noise in the world and in my head most of the time
I don’t know why my photo comes up. You aren’t the only one that happens to. I must have something check that shouldn’t be.
I loved the phrase well practiced too. I know I expect immediate results and need to remember it is a life time of learning. Just read another quote that said prayer was like that too. Good perspective to hold onto and not to get discouraged.
Dear Jean
Thanks for letting us know about Mr Willard’s death! I heard he had cancer and was wondering how he was doing. He was a dear saint and we can learn a lot from his work. Oh yes, it is quite a humbling experience when we realize that our Pappa does NOT need our help to run His creation. We are allowed to relax and become still in His presence.
Blessings
Mia
Such truth about silence and solitude! It is so hard to stop and give God our full attention. But He blesses with such joy and a renewing of my mind when I do. Blessings to you and thanks for sharing! Love, Rachael @ Inking the Heart
What a great quote. I want to seek out some silence, right now. Lovely.
I like that quote. “Solitude well practiced…” has many implications and applications. Reminds me to “be still” and know that he is indeed God. 🙂