When I was younger (much younger), I would find a tree that still had sway in the top of it yet was big enough to hold me safely. Then I'd shimmy up to the top and sit quietly, enjoying the view and the breeze. I used to have conversations with God way up there that sure did refresh my soul.

I no longer climb trees to get alone with God. We do not even have woods nearby that I'd want to venture into alone. However, the quiet, undistracted prayer time with God is the important part, not the location or time of day.

Jesus went a part from everyone to pray to God. It was evening time.

Matthew 14:23

And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.

How I miss the quiet solitude of a country morning in the woods. The still dew of the day, clinging to the greenery while the birds sing loudly and the creek waters bubble over rocks. It is easy to pray in a setting like this without distraction. I find it much more difficult to carve an alone time and an alone place to pray to God on a continual basis in my home and in my city.

All around me I find distractions at home…bills in the pile on the table, unfinished projects in every room, work that needs started and completed all around me, telephone, radio, television… the list goes on and on. I am so busy with family, ministry work, chores, job, hobbies, church, writing, friends….

I have forgotten to go up into a place a part from it all to pray.

Jesus was busy and was responsible for multitudes of people. His ministry lasted a very short time. Yet Jesus Christ sent the people away and took the time to pray and be alone with God. I find once again, I am without excuse.

Father, You are my life. I am sorry I forget to go and talk to you alone. Help me tune the distractions out so I can fellowship with you and be alone with you. I need a place apart to pray. I need time to be alone with you. Help me overcome all the distractions and to trust in and rely on you more and more. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.