(Day 8 of a series called “23 days to a better devotional life.” I’m posting daily this month on devotions.)

Some Christians may not see the need to spend time alone with God. They say they pray while they go through their day. While it’s important to seek God every moment of our lives no matter what we’re doing, I still believe we should spend time alone in prayer everyday.

Why should we seek solitude and silence when we pray?

Jesus is our example.
Jesus would often withdraw by himself to secluded places to spend time with God. Luke 5:16 says, “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” If Jesus felt the need to get away from everyone and pray, how much more do we need to do the same?

“Close the door.”
Matthew 6:6 says, “When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Solitude and silence helps us notice our unseen God. Solitude and silence minimizes our distractions, so we can focus better on God. No one likes to have a serious conversation with anyone who’s trying to listen while doing another activity. We want their whole attention. When it comes to our daily serious conversations with God, He wants our undivided attention. “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).

We notice our blessings.
It takes time and concentration to be thankful. Yet being thankful leads to joy and contentment. Solitude and silence helps us slow down and see our blessings. If our lives are always busy and filled with many interruptions and distractions, we won’t notice the many ways God is blessing us.

We notice our sins.
Today most of us live such busy lives that it’s easy to ignore our habitual sins. For example, we hold resentment towards someone for days and weeks at a time. Or we’re filled with worry and fear and we don’t even realize it. Solitude and silence allows us to step back from our busy lives and evaluate our actions and attitudes. God wants us to realize our sins so we can confess them to Him and receive His forgiveness.

So today, find a quiet place away from others and pray to the One who can really help you.