E.A.R. to H.E.A.R.T.: A Practical Guide to Silence and Solitude

We've talked about why silence and solitude matter. But how do you actually do it? What do you do when you get alone and quiet?Hi everyone! I'm Jamie Morrison, and this is our final devotion in this week's "Holy Habits" series on Silence and Solitude. We've covered the currents that cause us to drift, the example of Jesus, and the whisper that met Elijah in the cave. But if you've ever tried to be silent and found your mind racing with noise, this one's for you.In this devotion, I walk you through a simple, practical framework to guide your time in silence and solitude. I call it: E.A.R. to H.E.A.R.T.First: E.A.R.E — Escape: Get away from your surroundings. Hide in the bathroom. Go for a walk. Leave the phone, the music, the podcasts—even the Bible, if necessary. Just be alone with God.A — Aware: Notice what's on your mind. The critical thoughts. The barking dog. The ticking clock. Don't fight them—just notice them.R — Release: Let it go. Trust God with your worries, your distractions, your noise. Rest in the knowledge that He has you.Then, move from E.A.R. to HERE:H — Hold whatever you're sensing from God. A truth? A promise? A story from Scripture? A characteristic of God? Hold it. Contemplate it. Let it settle.Finally, move from HERE to HEART:T — Thanks: End with a short prayer of gratitude. Thank God for the time, for the thoughts, for the simple truth that you are loved by a personal and involved God.This is how silence and solitude move from your ears to your heart.Try it today. Start with 10 minutes. Your appetite will grow.Don't forget to like and subscribe as we continue our Holy Habits series with more topics in the weeks ahead!