Solitude vs. Isolation
Hello beautiful ladies! I hope this summer has held special moments and memories for you and your loved ones. I hope you have taken time to rest and replenish!
In one of our Simplified series messages I preached this summer, I briefly mentioned a point regarding solitude vs. isolation. I talked about how Isolation will destroy you but solitude with Jesus will refocus you. It amazes me throughout scripture how one of the first things the Devil would do before taking down and out different people, is he would get them isolated. Away from the group, away from counsel, away from the house of God and away from right priorities. Today that is still his tactic. BUT in Jesus’ life on earth, we see something very different from isolation modeled. He would draw away for a moment of solitude with his heavenly father and as a result would come out refocused on his purpose, ready to teach the disciples, heal the sick and be among the people.
Today, where do you find yourself? Are you in moments of solitude with your heavenly father or are you isolated? It amazes me how there is always an excuse for my isolation. My job, my children, my schedule, LIFE! But the reality is, we were put on this earth not to do life but to steward well the gifts and talents we have been gifted. One of the most dangerous things a life of isolation can bring is that we become the judge and the jury. We assess our own life and make the judgment as to if its right or not. But when we are in community, a part of a healthy body, there is wisdom. Proverbs 15:22 says, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.”
As the fall approaches, we as a church will be preparing ourselves for the greatest move of God yet, for the greatest growth, for the greatest community and discipleship. In your life are you ready to be among the people? Are you ready to do life with others or are you finding yourself alone becoming the judge and the jury of your decisions and life.
I read a quote the other day that was very sobering, “You become like the 5 people you spend the most time with. Choose Carefully.” I don’t know about you, but I want to surround myself with people who will fight for me when I am in isolation and who will push me to steward well the gifts and talents I have been given. And I know those people are in the house!
In conclusion, a few weeks ago a beautiful woman came up to me after the 2nd Experience. This past Easter she came to Thrive and recommitted her life to God. She has been faithful to come ever since. She looked me in the eyes with tears and said, “Before Thrive I was in isolation, but now I am in solitude.”
Flourish well today my friends! And flourish well with others!
Xoxo,
Hannah