Away From The Noise
I am writing this post from North Carolina. I flew in on a red eye from LA and landed first thing Wednesday morning. I was exhausted. I thought I would be able to rest on the first leg of the trip but instead found myself restless. I just could not get comfortable long enough to get sound sleep. My connecting flight was short but my fatigue overshadowed comfort. I was asleep once the plane hit the friendly skies. This is the one time I wished the flight was longer so I could have slept another hour or so.
By the time I was greeted by my Dad and sister at the airport, I was cranky and tired. As we neared his house, the landscape became that of large fields on a narrow road. My dad’s street was lined with quaint houses and it was so obvious to me why he choose the outskirts of Charlotte to retire.
When we arrived, I put my things down and was instantly drawn to the backyard lined with trees of various sizes and species. The bird feeder remained busy as the birds frequented their familiar hangout. It is amazing how nature has a way of calming me and quieting all the noise in my head.
Throughout the day, I found myself in this space over and over again. I even took a nap out there! The sound of the birds, the wind, and the insects were like an elegant symphony playing in the background. In these quiet moments, I pondered about the beauty of being still before God. There was something refreshing about being disconnected from the business of life in those moments. I was reminded of how Jesus would get up early in the morning to pray. He would go to a quiet place (often times a mountaintop). He removed Himself from the disciples and from the crowds. He got away from the noise to so He could hear from God. It was there I believe He would gain wisdom, insight, and more We are to follow in His footsteps.
The reality is, on this journey of purpose, we have to be connected consistently to the Purpose Giver. He (God) already has the plan for us but we have to be quiet enough to hear His instructions, daily. It is not enough to have a conversation every once in a while. I have learned that what may have been successful during one season may not be the strategy for the season I am currently in. The way we approach a situation may have to shift or adjust. If we are not having the constant quiet time with God we may miss the adjusted directions He desires to give us.
At the end of the day, our relationship with the Purpose Giver is more important than the purpose. We can be sincere in our desire to do what God has created us to do but we miss the boat if we don’t spend time with Him. Our motives should always be grounded in our love for Him and not just for what His hand can give. I encourage you to get away from the noise, daily. Maybe this is sitting on your porch or taking a walk around your neighborhood. Whatever it looks like for you, I encourage you to do it. Don’t allow the busyness of life keep you from the joy of daily communing with God in the quiet place.
Scripture Reference
And after He (Jesus) said goodbye to them, He went to the mountain to pray. Mark 6:26
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you that Jesus set an example for us to follow. May I be diligent and intentional about daily spending time with You. In my pursuit of completing the assignments You have for me, may I never lose sight of You. May You always be the One my heart longs for. Reveal in me if I have, in any way, put anything above You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Until Next Time,
Live Audaciously!
Kay Naomi
PS. The photo used today is actually a picture of my Dad’s backyard. :)