Date: 11-22-2020

Title: A Solitary Place

(S) cripture:
    Matthew 14:13 (NASB) Now when Jesus heard about John, He withdrew from there in a boat to a secluded place by Himself; and when the people heard of this, they followed Him on foot from the cities.

    Matthew 14:13 (NIV) When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns.

(O) bservation:
    When Jesus got the news of the death of John the Baptist he went to a private place. On hearing about the death of a friend, Jesus needed to be alone with His Father, so he went to a solitary place. The crowds would not leave him alone and followed by foot to where he went. Jesus then proceeded by boat and at least for that time he was alone.

(A) pplication:
    So often when we hear bad news, we immediately seek our friends to be with. Jesus went first to His Father and so should we. Friends are necessary but there are times when we need to be alone with God. Howard Hendricks, a professor at Dallas Seminary, said, “You can never do enough for people if you are always surrounded by people.” Jesus knew that if he was going to be able to help the crowd, he first needed to be alone with His Father. That is why this quiet time is so important for me. It is my time with God that is not disturbed or interrupted by people. As God recharges my spirit, I can then help others. I have neglected this time with God from time to time. Today I renew my commitment to this time each day. I know I cannot adequately minister to people if I have not had this time with my Father.

(P) rayer:
    Father, thank you for the reminder from the life of Jesus about the need for solitude and time with you. I commit to this time with you again today. Give me strength to follow through and teach me what I need to know to more fully follow You. Amen