Sacred Stillness: Why Seasons of Quiet Matter in Our Spiritual Journey
In a world that glorifies busyness, the idea of slowing down can feel countercultural—yet, throughout scripture, we see how God meets us in stillness. Lent invites us into this sacred quiet, a season to step away from noise and distractions, making space for deeper reflection and connection with God. Just as Jesus withdrew to the wilderness to pray, we, too, are called to embrace moments of solitude, trusting that silence is not emptiness but an invitation to renewal.
Personally, I experience strong quiet moments of spiritual connection when outside exploring new places. For the reality of daily life see below!
These ten ideas may not be new—many of us are familiar with the value of quiet and solitude—but sometimes seeing them in writing helps us refocus on what is truly important, offering a gentle reminder to make space for stillness in our busy lives.
Create a Daily Quiet Time: Set aside a specific time each day for prayer, meditation, or journaling. Even 10–15 minutes of uninterrupted quiet can offer a sense of grounding and connection with God.
Go on a Nature Walk: Step outside and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Whether it's a walk in the park, a hike in the woods, or simply sitting in your backyard, the natural world can provide a peaceful, calming space to reflect and reconnect.
Unplug from Digital Distractions: Designate times during the day (or entire days) to disconnect from screens and social media. Use this time to read scripture, reflect, or simply be present in the moment.
Simplify Your Environment: Clear out unnecessary clutter in your home or workspace. A tidier, more serene environment can help create a sense of peace and openness to God's presence.
Create a Prayer Space: Set aside a physical space in your home for quiet reflection. Whether it's a corner with a candle, a chair by the window, or a prayer rug, having a designated space helps foster a mindset of stillness and prayer.
Practice Mindful Breathing: When life feels chaotic, take a few moments to focus on your breath. Breathe in deeply, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly. This simple practice can help center your mind and bring you back to the present.
Engage in Creative Practices: Art, writing, or music can be powerful forms of self-expression that connect us to our deeper spiritual lives. Take time to create in whatever medium speaks to you, using it as a way to reflect and express your relationship with God.
Attend Silent Retreats: If possible, attend a retreat that emphasizes silence and solitude. These spaces allow for extended periods of quiet, offering a profound opportunity for rest and renewal.
Read Sacred Texts Slowly: Take time to read and meditate on scripture, focusing not on quantity but on the depth of meaning you can discover in a few verses. Allow the words to sink into your heart.
Practice Sabbath Rest: Incorporate regular periods of rest into your week, treating them as sacred time. Whether it’s a full day of rest or a few hours on a Sunday, choose to refrain from work and give yourself permission to rest in God’s presence.
A few moments sitting still in a space without distractions is a personal practice I try to honor. And oh yes, peep the paint on my leggings. That’s real 😂.
Seasons of quiet, like Lent, remind us that growth often happens beneath the surface, in the unseen and unhurried work of the soul. When we intentionally create space for stillness, we open ourselves to hearing God’s voice more clearly, allowing His grace to shape us in ways we might otherwise miss. May this Lenten season be one of deep listening, rest, and renewal.
