For thus says the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: “In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and confidence shall be your strength.” ~ Isaiah 30:15 NKJV
For me, quiet thoughts are a sweet savor, yet to have quiet thoughts there must first be quiet moments. I have found quiet thoughts and quiet moments are sanctuary. Sometimes I think something is wrong with me because I enjoy a quieter, slower pace in a world driven to go and do 24/7. But I am learning this is a gift God has given me and I receive it with a glad heart.
One of my favorite places for quiet thoughts and quiet moments is where I walk. Out there on a beautiful walking trail along woods and creek and past a small lake, I breathe differently, I think differently, and I pray differently. I talk to my heavenly Father as He comes beside me with every step I take. This is special to me. In the quiet wide-open spaces something happens that makes His nearness stronger in my heart.
Most people I walk past are plugged in and listening to something or they are on their phones. While there is nothing wrong with being plugged in, I sometimes wonder sometimes if they ever unplug to have quiet moments or allow for thoughts in their lives.
I think it is important that we make time for a quieter pace at some point in our week and in each day if at all possible.
I would have missed the beauty of quiet moments if I just let myself be swept along in life’s swift current and didn’t make the time.
But I have heard His voice calling me to this...
Sometimes, it is sitting by a window gazing at a sky that promises His return someday.
Other times, it is lingering in my small backyard garden that is sanctuary to birds, rabbits, squirrels, and my quiet breathing heart.
Sometimes, it is gazing out the car window on a long and open road.
Sometimes, it is in footsteps that carry me down a winding path.
But I have heard His voice calling me to this…
He is teaching this heart of mine to be still.
Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!
~ Psalm 46:10 NKJV
It’s so easy to get swept up in the busyness of life.
Do you make time for quiet moments? And if you do, what do quiet moments look like for you?
Kathy Cheek writes devotions, inspirational stories, and poetry. She is published in various Christian publications and regularly guest posts on several devotional and ministry sites. She and her husband live in Dallas, TX, and have two daughters who also reside in the Dallas area. You can read more of her devotions at In Quiet Places at www.kathycheek.blogspot.com.