Good morning, everyone. It's Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025, and it’s 3 AM here at the cypress swamp cabin overlooking the Red River in Shreveport, Louisiana. The bayou is cloaked in its deepest quiet, a profound stillness that, if we choose, can become a sacred space.
Today, I want to begin a new series about something profoundly important for our spiritual journeys: getting alone with God in our private time. In a world that constantly demands our attention, finding moments of solitude with our Creator isn't just a good idea; it's essential for our souls.
Even Jesus, with His constant ministry and the crowds always pressing in, prioritized this private time with God. Mark 1:35 tells 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."
Imagine that scene. While it was still dark, before the world awoke, Jesus sought out a solitary place to connect with His Father. This wasn't a hurried whisper; it was intentional, dedicated time. If the Son of God needed to step away from the demands of ministry and people to be alone with God, how much more do we? The 3 AM hour, like the one we're experiencing now, offers that very opportunity—a solitary place in the quiet of our homes or, for me, right here by the Red River.
A Thirsty Soul's Cry: Psalm 63:1
When we do carve out this private time, what is the desire that drives us? It should be a deep, consuming thirst for God Himself. Psalm 63:1 beautifully expresses this longing:
"You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water."
This isn't just a polite prayer; it's the cry of a soul that recognizes its absolute need for God, much like a traveler in a parched land longs for water. When we intentionally seek Him in our private moments, let it be with this kind of earnest desire, a longing from our whole being. It's in those moments of deep seeking that He truly meets us and refreshes our souls.
Fulfilling Our Vows: Ecclesiastes 5:4
Finally, as we commit to this practice of getting alone with God and earnestly seeking Him, we are also reminded of the seriousness of our vows and commitments to Him. Ecclesiastes 5:4 advises us:
"When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow."
This verse serves as a sober reminder that our commitment to seek God, to spend time with Him, and to live in accordance with His will, should be taken seriously. It’s a call to faithfulness in our private disciplines. Our desire to get alone with God isn't just a fleeting feeling; it's a commitment, a spiritual discipline that requires our dedication. When we promise to seek Him, let us do so faithfully and without delay, finding pleasure in fulfilling our vow to Him.
As this Tuesday morning unfolds, I encourage you to find your own solitary place, whether it's the quiet of 3 AM or another time that works for you. Earnestly seek God, allow your soul to thirst for Him, and faithfully fulfill your commitment to draw near. It is in this secret place that true spiritual growth and intimacy are found.
I wanted to make sure I got this out to you all now. Please know you're in my thoughts and prayers. Have a blessed Tuesday.
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