Rhythms of Jesus – Week 3: The Discipline of Solitude

Day 15: The Example of Jesus in Solitude

In the midst of His demanding ministry, Jesus intentionally sought out solitude. He often withdrew from the crowds, from the noise, and even from His disciples to be alone with the Father. Mark 1:35 gives us a powerful glimpse into His daily rhythm—before the sun had even risen, Jesus found a quiet place to pray. If the Son of God needed solitude to connect with the Father, how much more do we?

Solitude is not about isolation; it is about being intentionally alone with God. It is in these quiet moments that we are renewed, strengthened, and refocused. Jesus knew that His strength, wisdom, and direction came from His time with the Father. Whether it was before making a major decision (Luke 6:12), after an exhausting day of ministry (Matthew 14:23), or in times of deep sorrow (Luke 22:41-42), He always prioritized solitude and prayer.

In our fast-paced world, solitude can feel unnatural. We are constantly bombarded with distractions—our schedules, phones, and responsibilities pull us in countless directions. But if we never step away from the noise, we miss the opportunity to hear God’s voice clearly. When we follow Jesus’ example and seek time alone with God, we find rest for our weary souls and clarity for our daily lives.

Key Verse: 
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. ~ Mark 1:35

Put it into Practice:
Set aside time today, even if only for a few minutes, to withdraw from distractions and be alone in God’s presence. If you find your mind wandering, focus on a verse of Scripture or pray to God for a calming of your mind.