Job, pay attention and listen to me; be quiet, and I will speak. If you have anything to say, answer me; speak up, because I want to prove you right. But if you have nothing to say, then listen to me; be quiet, and I will teach you wisdom. (Job 33:31-33)

How do you struggle with quietness?

When and where are you able to quiet yourself?

What could you gain by being more quiet?

We’re surrounded by noise and distractions. We can find something to consume our time and minds at any time. Being quiet isn’t a default setting. We must step away from the tendency to look for entertainment. We have to choose to be busy with quietness instead of mayhem. We know God speaks to us in all situations, but it’s often when we quiet ourselves that we most experience his presence and hear his guiding voice. It’s in the quietness that we draw close and are reassured, convicted, and directed. We need to be still. But how?

In order to be still consistently, we must develop the habit of stillness. Stillness isn’t going to crowd its way into our daily routines. We must be intentional about it. Schedule it. Ink it onto the calendar. Start small. One minute today is a great place to start. Try two tomorrow and work your way up to ten. Stay there for a week or so to develop a consistent habit. As you develop the habit, you’ll miss quiet time when you skip or postpone it. Avoid imposing too much structure onto your quiet time. Sit in silence or play soft instrumental music. As your mind begins to wonder, pull your attention back to God by committing to listen. Avoid giving up even when you get frustrated with yourself. Growth requires perseverance.

Set your phone alarm for your quiet time today. Before you begin your quiet time, reset your alarm for one minute, so you can wholeheartedly remain quiet instead of checking the time regularly.