The Devil and Diversion
A Solitary Place – Part 3

Scripture Reading:  Mark 1:29-34

Key Verse:  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.

Where is your place of prayer?  Do you have a quiet place to go and talk to God?  Maybe you have small children and getting up earlier than they do is your only hope of quiet time!  Can you talk to your spouse or kids and let them know you need a few moments alone with God each day?  That would accomplish two things.  First, it would assure you of a vital connection with your heavenly Father.  Secondly, it would model for your family how they should find their time with God.

            A solitary place represents a place that is free of distractions.  It is a place where our full attention can be given to the one who is worthy of that and more!  Think for a moment how good it feels when someone gives you their full attention.  That person is giving you the greatest gift, especially in our busy society:  The gift of their time and focus.  Are you proving to God that you feel that way toward Him by your daily actions?

            Sometimes we take God for granted and that will hurt any relationship.  When you assume that it is OK to skip a date night with your spouse, you tell yourself, “They’ll understand.’’  Too much of that and the relationship suffers.  So it is with God.  Of course, God will always love you, but He wants some focus time with us.  Jesus needed it and made time for it.  Shouldn’t we?

Father, you deserve my best.  I will give you my full attention.  Grant me your spirit of self-control that I can start the day right!  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.