Reading: “And He said to them, “Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” For there were many coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat” Mark 6:31

We must always strive for a disposition of heart that is inclined towards solitude while surrounded by the turmoil of this world and as we interact with people. This means that we are to be loose and divorced from all that is of this world, such as the honor, love, riches, lusts, and pleasures of men. Furthermore, it means to be free from all creatures so that they will neither have dominion over us, conquer our hearts, confuse, or trouble us.

If a cross or tribulation comes our way we are not to look for creature comforts or help, but in solitude look unto God. To this continual solitude also belongs a life with God. To be loose from the creature and to be united to God must go hand in hand.

Wilhelmus à Brakel (The Christian’s Reasonable Service: 4:20-21)