I’ve noticed something about myself that I’ve never noticed before.
I need to be alone.
I need silence.
Do you? I bet you do–maybe even more than you know.
Whether you’re a momma with small children or an almost empty-nester like me–we need a quiet moment in the day to recharge our spirits.
But not just any kind of silence will do.
Silence can be lonely. Empty.
But silence spent in the Presence of God fills us with strength and joy.
“Splendor and majesty are before Him; strength and joy in His dwelling place.” ~1Chron. 16:27
The Hebrew words that form this sentence are beautiful. But I’ll only focus on one. “Dwelling place” is the translated counterpart for the ancient word, maqowm; it’s definition is:
“Dwelling place” is lovely, but “standing place” puts me right at His feet. If I’m simply where He dwells, I picture myself in His house. But if I’m where He stands, I’m right next to Him. I’m in His Presence.
And honestly, if He is standing, I see myself on my knees bowed as low as I can go. Something happens when I get on my knees, my face to the ground.
[tweetability]If you are running near empty in the joy and strength department, place yourself next to Him–His standing place.[/tweetability]
Do you need some strength and joy? Would you pray with me? Grab my hand.
“Lord, our lives are so loud and hectic. We thank you for all the people and blessings that make the noise during our day. But when we feel our strength waning and our joy fading please help us get away if only for a moment to a place all alone (even if it’s the bathroom with the door locked.) Let us fall on our knees right at your maqowm, your standing place. Recharge us with your joy and your strength. We love you. Amen and Amen.”
Where do you feel the Presence or standing place of God? Do you receive joy and strength for the day when you’re there?
See you Friday!
Loved this post! I’ve been having a rough go of finding a job in my new town. Every position I applied for in my hometown, I was hired immediately and with enthusiasm. For over a month, I’ve faced multiple rejections and even being ignored by hopeful employers, leaving my extroverted self home alone all day wondering why I haven’t been accepted for positions for which I’m definitely qualified. Strength and joy have been waning in many moments, so I am thankful for the reminder that we can be found and satisfied at the Lord’s feet. Thank you, Andy!
Oh Samantha! I’ll be praying for you. Trust his timing. Maybe the right job hasn’t opened up yet, or maybe he wants you to have a little vacation with him writing! Or starting a Word Weavers. :) No, not really, but writing yes. I’ll be praying.
I’ve known for quite some time my own great need for silence and aloneness. People are often shocked when I tell them I’m more of an introvert than an extrovert. I’ve often retreated at reunions or parties to the outdoors or even the bathroom to soak up some solitude. And yes, there ARE indeed different kinds of being alone. I like the way you compared them. Wonderful thoughts. Thank you, my soulmate. We still seem to be traveling down the same road; I smiled to read how you have just now discovered this need that I discovered some miles back. I love how He found a way to extend your young arm and my old one far enough to reach each other.
Love you Jan!
Traveling. Heading to Minn. and N.D. to visit loved ones. Yesterday morning I did not have my quiet alone time at the Lord’s standing place. It was all hustle and hurry. I was jangle inside all day. I determined I would have it this morning. And I am at this very minute as I pause my conversation with God to write you, my sister in Christ.
Love you Patricia! Have a safe and blessed trip. I’ll pray for your quiet time.