A Quiet Place to Pray

Have we become so busy and have so many people and duties swirling around us that we can’t find a solitary place to pray? Do we want to pray but can’t because our mind is racing?

The Bible records Jesus had the same issue. In Mark 6:30-31, it states, “The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, 'Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.'"

The Apostles and Jesus got in a boat to sail to a solitary place. However, the crowd ran along the shore and met them when they landed. Perhaps Jesus’ experience reminds us of leaving the chaos of work. Then, go home to three kids, who are jumping on the couch throwing pillows.

According to Philippians 4, the first step is to stop fighting the noise and the worry. Rather, tell God our frustrations. Pray our muddled thoughts and fears.

  ► In the doctor’s office lobby, pray about the test results.

      ► Waiting for the police, pray our fears about the accident.

      ► In the executive secretary’s office, pray about what the boss might say.

      ► Waiting on construction, pray about being late.

      ► When our coworker is yelling, pray about our response.

If our brain won’t stop buzzing, then write our concerns. Scribbling our prayers can bring our mind into alignment with his will.

John W. Peterson got it right. Remember his chorus? In Sunday school or VBS, many of us sang “Why Worry When You Can Pray?”

After we express our concerns, listen. While we are in pandemonium, God will bring peace. We will experience Philippians 4:5-7, “The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God and the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."