In this 90 minute training session, we will discover the benefits of silence and solitude and how they can be embedded in a believer’s life.
What is silence and solitude? Silence, as a spiritual discipline, is sitting in silence to be with God and listen to God. (Psalm 62:1-2) Solitude, as a spiritual discipline, is being alone (stepping away from others) to be present with God. It's not loneliness. While practicing solitude, you may practice other spiritual disciplines such as study and prayer. (Mark 1:35)
Why is practicing silence and solitude important? We live in an active and noisy world. Without silence and listening, we may struggle to hear God. Jesus gives us examples of seeking solitude to pray. If we want to be transformed to be like Jesus, we should also practice solitude. “The purpose of silence and solitude is to be able to see and hear” (Richard Foster, Celebration of Discipline, p. 86). The Holy Spirit speaks to us when our heart is still and silent before the Lord, not when we’re rushing about and doing our own thing in our own way.
How do we practice silence and solitude? Start with short periods of silence and solitude. Gradually spend more time in each of them. Even though these spiritual disciplines are practiced alone, find someone to keep you accountable.
This training session is supported by PowerPoint and Video presentations.