There is an abundance of wisdom in a tiny book called “The Practice of the Presence of God” by Brother Lawrence. Following is an insert from this book.
“I honestly cannot understand how people who claim to love the Lord can be content without practicing His presence. My preference is to retire with Him to the deepest part of my soul as often as possible. When I am with Him there, nothing frightens me, but the lightest diversion away from Him is painful to me. Spending time in God’s presence doesn’t weaken the body. Leaving the seemingly innocent and permissible pleasures of the world for a time will, on the contrary, give us comfort. In fact, God won’t allow a soul that is searching for Him to be comforted anywhere other than with Him. Hence, it makes sense to sacrifice ourselves for some time in His presence. This does not mean that you have to suffer in this endeavor. No, God must be served with holy freedom. We should labor faithfully, without distress or anxiety, calmly recalling our spirit to God whenever it is distracted.”
The idea of and recognition of need of time in the presence of God is not a new thing. These words ring true to us today, even though they were written more than 300 years ago. In the presence of God, there is peace. Our busy world tries to drown out our peace. It is then that we need to take a step back, find a place to retreat so that we can once again be aware of the presence of God. Listening for what He wants to speak to our hearts. There are times we get so busy that we cannot even hear the gentle calling from God, directing us back to His presence. Sometimes we need a little push. That’s what I like about people nominating minsters to go on retreat through Elijah’s Tree. Some people need that extra push to take time away and again, practice the presence of God.
Peace Be With You! – Kelly Lockey, MDiv.