Finding Rest and Hope Through Intentional Living预览

In Quietness and Trust

Friend, we were physically built for silence. God designed us this way, and science confirms that design. Secondary to the spiritual impact of time alone with God, according to the emerging field of neurotheology, quiet meditation quite literally changes our brains.

When we turn off the constant distractions and sit quietly before God, focusing intently on His Word and really meditating on it, a few things happen:

• Your brain will be physiologically altered. 
• Your imagination will be rewired. 
• The kind of brain waves present during relaxation increases, and anxiety and depression decrease.
• Your brain stays younger longer.
• You’ll have fewer wandering thoughts.
• Your perspective will eventually shift.

“When we take time to listen to what God has to say to us,” wrote Bible teacher Charles Stanley, “we will see how much He loves us and wants to help us through every situation in life. He gives us the confidence to live extraordinary lives in the power of His Spirit and grace.”

—Jennie Allen, Get Out of Your Head 

Reflection: Whether you enjoy alone time or tend to avoid it at all costs, try sitting in a quiet space without distractions and jotting down the thoughts that come to mind. You might write out things you want to hear from God. After you do, take time to be silent as you wait on Him to answer. 

Prayer: Lord, may I take time to be silent, to shut out the busy, the distractions, and what I don’t need. Help me to be quiet, so that in turn, I can hear you more. Amen.