SPF for the Soul - (Sun Protection Factor)

Matthew 16:26
What good will it be for you to gain the whole world, yet forfeit your soul?
What can you give in exchange for your soul?

Selling your soul to the devil… (Johann Georg Faust - 1466 – 1541) (Robert Johnson May 8, 1911 – August 16, 1938)

In scripture, soul and spirit are used interchangeably. They referred to the essence of who we are… and as a result, everything we do comes from who we are. So selling our soul is abandoning the essence of who God has created us to be.

So this series is looking at how do we guard our Soul or Spirit?

June 22nd Solitude
June 29th Perspective
July 6th Foundations

Adam - Giving ourselves time and space to hear the whispers of our soul.

Solitude—the state of being alone without being lonely—can offer a variety of psychological, emotional, and practical advantages.

Luke 5:16 Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.

Mark 1:35 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. Simon and his companions went to look for him, and when they found him, they exclaimed: ‘Everyone is looking for you!’
(dude, what are you doing? We got things we need to get done.)

Luke 6:12-13 One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles.

Martin Luther is often quoted as saying, “I have so much to do that I shall spend the first three hours in prayer.

Luke 22:39-42 Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him. On reaching the place, he said to them, ‘Pray that you will not fall into temptation.’ He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, ‘Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.’

How noisy could the first century have actually been?

We live in a noisy world.
Will often turn on noise, radio, TV just for background even when we’re not paying attention.

For many people silence is uncomfortable.

Jesus was human so he had human limitations.

Hebrews 2:17 He (Jesus) had to be made like his brothers and sisters in every way.

I need a place to think my thoughts… commune with God…

It takes time to “wind down” and be in a state of solitude.

Book GTD - (all tasks in a trusted space so my mind can be clear)

43 Folders Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIp4e5AXy0o

For me… Sunshine, Breeze/Wind, Nature, Cool night air

Started for me in middle school… (Ford Falcon station wagon)

In the stars His handiwork I see,
On the wind He speaks with majesty,
Though He rules over land and sea,
What is that to me?
I will celebrate Nativity,
For it has a place in history,
Sure, He came to set His people free,
What is that to me?

Till by faith I met Him face to face,
and I felt the wonder of His grace,
Then I knew that He was more than just a
God who didn’t care,
That lived a way out there and

Now He walks beside me day by day,
Ever watching o’er me lest I stray,
Helping me to find that narrow way,
He’s Everything to me.

Pick up truck by the lake

Now… Thinking chair, car rides, daybed

Solitude is amazing for…
Hearing & Focus
Destress & Renew
Rest & Relax

Benefits:
Enhanced Self-Awareness
Increased Creativity
Emotional Recharging
Greater Productivity
Personal Independence

Adam - guided meditation

EXTRA… not in notes

1. Enhanced Self-Awareness
   Deep reflection: Solitude allows you to turn inward and examine your thoughts, emotions, and motivations.
   Better decision-making: With fewer distractions, you can weigh options more carefully and align actions with your core values.

2. Increased Creativity
   Uninterrupted thought: Many artists, writers, and thinkers report breakthroughs during quiet time alone.
   Freedom from judgment: Solitude removes social pressures, enabling more original and authentic ideas.

3. Emotional Recharging
   Reduced social fatigue: Especially for introverts, solitude helps recover from the mental drain of social interactions.
   Lower stress: Quiet time away from external demands can lower cortisol levels and promote calm.

4. Greater Productivity
   Fewer distractions: Working alone minimizes interruptions common in group settings.
   Focused work: You can enter a state of deep work or flow more easily without the need to multitask socially.

5. Stronger Relationships
   More appreciation: Time apart can improve your perspective and deepen your appreciation of others.
   Better communication: Solitude helps you understand your needs and boundaries, leading to healthier interactions.

6. Personal Independence
   Self-sufficiency: Learning to enjoy your own company fosters resilience and emotional independence.
   Confidence: Making decisions and enjoying activities alone builds self-trust.

7. Mindfulness and Presence
   Living in the moment: Solitude encourages mindfulness and attentiveness to your inner and outer world.
   Spiritual connection: For many, solitude is essential for spiritual practices, such as meditation or prayer.