Solitude: The Habit of Slowing - August 17, 2025

This episode explores the spiritual habit of solitude—slowing a racing mind by following Jesus' example of intentional, regular time alone with the Father. The sermon explains why we must stop anxious striving, be still, and let God refill us so we can pour out to others.

Practical steps are offered: find a quiet place, disconnect from distractions, and build consistent, intentional rhythms of prayer, silence, and Scripture to restore your heart and renew your life.

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Habits of a Healthy Heart—3

Practice Solitude: The Habit of Slowing

Mark 1:35-37

 

Introduction: What do you do when your mind won’t stop?

Ecclesiastes 2:22-23 – “anxious striving”

1. There is no such thing as intimacy without intentionality.
   1. You can’t busy your way to God. Mark 1:35-37
   2. Jesus Withdrew:

• Before starting His ministry. Luke 4:1-2, 14-15
• Before making important decisions. Luke 6:12-13
• After a long, hard day of work. Matthew 14:23
• After ministering to lots of people. Luke 5:15-16
• After losing a close friend. Matthew 14:10-13

2. You can’t continue to pour out if you don’t fill up. Psalm 46:10
   1. Jesus came to give you abundant John 10:10
   2. You can’t give what you don’t have.
3. Practice the Spiritual Habit of Slowing (Solitude) Matthew 5:5 MSG

• Seek God in His Word.
• Listen for what God says.
• Journal what God shows you. 
• Reflect on His faithfulness.
• Worship Him for who He is and what He’s done.
• Stay in His presence for as long as you can.

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With Pastor Mike Curry.