“Go into your inner room and close the door, and pray with God in private.”
Matthew 6:6
Notes for Contemplation as You Use this Devotional:
- This wisdom from the “Sermon on the Mount,” from the Gospel Writer called Matthew, advises you to gain self-knowledge, experience self-connection, and apply self-compassion. Jesus emphasizes that you must be alone and turn within to fully connect with God (Supreme Being, Higher Power, etc.) and know yourself as a divine child of God.
- Jesus encourages everyone to have personal, private time, to “journey to a solitary place” (Mark 6:31), with your own thoughts and feelings. Just as Jesus needed time away from crowds and conversations, you also need time to recognize, appreciate, and embrace your true inner nature, your Christ essence. This isn’t when you post your thoughts on social media, phone a friend, or create a Tik-Tok video. This is just you with you.
- Jesus presumes that his listeners already have a prayer practice. Here, he emphasizes that the highest form of prayer is personal, affirmative prayer. So, you aren’t reciting creeds, using flowery words, or beseeching God. You’re listening to your own still, small voice, your intuition, so you know yourself better and can discern the choices before you, whatever your circumstances. Because whatever your prayer, you aren’t praying to change God. You’re praying to change you.
- If you continually seek validation outside yourself, running to others for their approval and acceptance, you’re neglecting your divinity, your Christ nature. It’s also likely that your prayers are confused because you don’t know what you feel or want.
- Metaphysics teaches that when you’re “aware of the ‘knower within,’” you can gain “knowledge through prayer and meditation.” You realize your “unique and special talents,” understanding “that true success in life is not dependent solely on formal education, but on the knowledge of [the] Christ within.”
- Demonstration is your evidence of wellbeing in all aspects of your life. You demonstrate what’s best for you by honoring your solitude. Some benefits you’ll discover include:
- Prioritizing your self-care.
- Resting your body and rejuvenating your energy.
- Embracing your creativity.
- Connecting with nature.
- Enjoying a hobby.
- Adjusting your perspective.
- Treasuring your independence.
- Boosting your compassion.
- Strengthening your relationships.
- Enhancing your sense of calm and inner peace.
Contemplation Questions:
As you reflect on your life and circumstances, ask yourself:
- What do I know about myself?
- List, word map, or illustrate everything you know.
- What are my judgments (negative thoughts) about myself?
- List, word map, or illustrate the negative.
- What do I appreciate (positive thoughts) about myself?
- List, word map, or illustrate the positive.
- How do I use my energy in solitude? For example, do I fret and analyze, or relax and reflect?
- List, word map, or illustrate what you do.
- What are at least three (3) ways I’m at home with myself?
- List, word map, or illustrate as much as you can.
If you’re a pro at being in solitude, get to it. And if ‘s new for you, begin with a half (1/2) hour. Silence all devices. Set a timer. You don’t need to sit still, but you need to turn within. Begin by focusing on and listening to your breath. If you want, do a simple activity such as weeding, coloring, or knitting. If thoughts run, assure yourself that you can return to them later. Let them pass gently, like clouds floating by. When your solitude is complete, pray or affirm whatever is on your heart. Then, let it go and ease back into your day.
Also, remember: Never affirm anything about yourself that you don’t want to be true. Of course, everyone makes mistakes, but let your inner journey be peaceful. Know that you can learn and grow all the time, so the more you know yourself, the more you trust your intuition, the easier your life can be.
© 2024 – Rev. Jennifer L. Sacks – All rights reserved.
Photo from Shutterstock by S Curtis.
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