We live in a world that simply refuses to be quiet. Between 24-hour news updates, chiming cell phones, email alerts, and the constant rush of daily demands, there is always something clamoring for our immediate attention. If we aren’t careful, our days become one continuous, noisy blur.

I’ve often joked that one of my favorite features on any modern electronic device is the “off button” —a feature many folks seem to forget even exists! But finding quiet isn’t just good for our nerves; it is essential for our souls.

Jesus Himself modeled this rhythm for us:

“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

Think about who was doing the praying here. If Jesus—with all the demands, crowds, and urgent needs surrounding Him—found it necessary to step away to a solitary place to speak with the Father, how much more do you and I need that quiet space?

Prayer begins when we are willing to push back against the noise of the world. It might be early in the morning with a hot cup of coffee before the house wakes up. It might be a quiet pause in your car during lunch.

When we hit the “off button” on the world’s frantic pace, our ears finally tune in to the steady, reassuring voice of our Lord.

Where can you carve out a few minutes of quiet stillness to be alone with God today?