Living in the modern day is socially exhausting. “Consumers around the world spend an average of 463 minutes or over 7.5 hours per day with media” (Statista.com). 7.5 hours of media and that’s not including in person conversations, work, and other things that take up our time. We must take steps at lowering our media input and regain our moments of solitude. This means that sometimes we need a detox to get back on track.
Extended solitude is a period of a full day or longer where we detox from all media, human relationships, and normal responsibilities. This is not a free pass to do nothing… In fact this break is often painful, but the goal is to allow ourselves a moment to reset and remember that we exist and have worth without all that stuff that clogs up our days. This break should take you away from your normal habits and force you to sit with your thoughts and feelings. Turn the phone to silent, bring a Bible and food, and just exist with God.
Look at how Jesus spends 3 days of ministry:
-Day one: Jesus Feeds the 5,000
-Day two: Jesus takes extended Solitude
“Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone.” —Matthew 14:22
-Day three: Jesus Walks on water
Growth Challenge- Plan for Solitude
The context here is everything. In between 2 of Jesus most unique and powerful miracles Jesus makes time extended solitude.
-If Jesus requires extended solitude in his life why do we think we don’t need it?
- What do you imagine Jesus did during his solitude?
-Put a day on your calendar right now to take a day of solitude. It doesn’t have to be anywhere far away- it could even be in your own home, but for one day drop your routines, silence your phone, and spend time without media and people.
-For safety & accountability, inform someone close to you of your plans if you live alone.
-Pray, read the Bible and just be with God during this day of solitude.