Finding Solitude with God: 5 Steps to Building a Powerful Prayer Life
Growing up, I thought prayer was just something Christians did - a religious duty to check off the list. But I've learned that prayer is so much more. It's the lifeline of a believer's relationship with God, where we find strength, guidance, and genuine intimacy with our Creator. In Mark 1:35, we catch a rare glimpse into how Jesus prioritized prayer in His life:
"Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed."
This moment comes right after Jesus launched His public ministry—preaching, healing, and driving out demons. Despite His busy schedule, Jesus intentionally sought time with His Father in prayer. Why is this so significant? Because prayer wasn't just part of His routine; it was the foundation of His strength. If Jesus, the Son of God, prioritized prayer, how much more should we? His example provides the perfect model for us to follow in developing our own prayer life.
You know, as I was reading this passage recently, God really put something special on my heart that I'd love to share with you. And don't worry - I promise this won't sound like one of those sermons where the preacher dissects every Greek word! winks Instead, let's look at five practical steps Jesus shows us about prayer. Trust me, if the Son of God needed His quiet time with the Father (even with His incredibly busy schedule!), we probably could use some tips too.
1. Choose the Right Time for Prayer
“Now in the morning, a long while before daylight…”
Jesus chose to pray early in the morning, before distractions could creep in. Beginning the day in prayer allows us to align our hearts with God, inviting Him into every decision and challenge we’ll face.
Starting the day with God doesn’t require hours. Even five intentional minutes can make a difference. Whether you’re a morning person or not, carving out this time is about surrender, not perfection.
Reflection: Are you giving God the first moments of your day, or are you rushing to check your phone or tackle your to-do list?
2. Be Intentional
“…having risen…”
Jesus didn’t stumble into prayer by accident. He rose with purpose. Intentionality is key to maintaining a consistent prayer life. Set an alarm, find a quiet corner, and prepare your heart and mind to meet with God.
The Bible reminds us in Psalm 5:3, “In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” Like David and Jesus, let your mornings be marked by this deliberate act of worship and surrender.
3. Step Away from the Noise
“…went out…”
Jesus physically removed Himself from distractions. In today’s world, that might mean putting your phone on silent, stepping away from social media, or even taking a walk outside to find focus. A change of environment helps signal to your heart and mind that this is sacred time with God.
Ask yourself: What do you need to step away from to give God your full attention?
4. Find a Solitary Place
“…to a solitary place…”
Solitude fosters intimacy with God. Jesus often sought secluded places to pray because He understood the value of being alone with the Father. In the quiet, we hear God’s still, small voice more clearly.
Think about 1 Kings 19:11-12, where God speaks to Elijah not through wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a gentle whisper. Silence and solitude create space for God to meet us in powerful ways.
Encouragement: Your "solitary place" could be a cozy chair, a park bench, or even your car. The location isn’t what matters—it’s the heart posture of seeking God in stillness.
5. Pray with Intention and Expectation
“…and there He prayed.”
Jesus didn’t rush through prayer; He engaged in heartfelt, meaningful communication with the Father. Prayer is more than reciting words; it’s about building relationship, seeking God’s will, and aligning our desires with His.
As Paul exhorts in Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Take time to pray with expectation, trusting that God hears and responds to every word you speak.
What Jesus’ Prayer Life Teaches Us
Discipline matters. Jesus prioritized prayer even when life was demanding.
Solitude is powerful. In the quiet, we connect more deeply with God.
God deserves our first moments. Starting with prayer sets the tone for the day.
If Jesus needed prayer to navigate His ministry, how much more do we need it in our daily lives? By following His example, we open ourselves to the transforming power of God’s presence and guidance.
Your Turn: Commit to Prayer
What’s one small change you can make this week to build a consistent prayer life? Maybe it’s setting your alarm 10 minutes earlier, creating a distraction-free zone, or journaling your prayers. Remember, prayer is not about performance but connection.
For more spiritual encouragement and practical tips for growing your faith, subscribe to the EXCEL2FAITH Newsletter today! Let’s journey together toward a deeper relationship with God.
Take a moment to engage with God using this fill-in-the-blanks prayer. This activity will help you personalize your time with Him and reflect on what’s on your heart today. Follow the instructions below:
Find a quiet space where you can focus for a few minutes without distractions.
Read the prayer below and fill in the blanks with your own thoughts, feelings, or specific situations. Be honest and heartfelt—it’s your personal conversation with God.
Pray your completed version aloud or silently, trusting that God hears every word and cares about your heart.
"My Morning Prayer"
Dear Heavenly Father,
This morning, I thank You for __________ (something specific you’re grateful for). I praise You because You are __________ (a quality of God, e.g., faithful, loving, just). As I begin this day, I surrender __________ (a worry, fear, or challenge) into Your hands. Help me to step away from __________ (a distraction or habit) and focus on Your presence. Lord, I ask for Your guidance in __________ (a decision or situation) and trust that You will lead me in Your perfect timing.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Feel free to revisit this prayer throughout the week or whenever you want to connect with God in a fresh, personal way. This is a great first step toward building an intentional, intimate prayer life!
3 Christian Evangelical Books to Deepen Your Prayer Life
1. “Too Busy Not to Pray: Slowing Down to Be With God” by Bill Hybels (1988, updated edition 2014)
This book explores the importance of prayer in a fast-paced world, offering practical advice on how to create intentional time with God. Hybels emphasizes the power of prayer to shape our lives, drawing from Scripture and personal experiences to inspire readers to develop a consistent and meaningful prayer life.
About the Author: Bill Hybels is a pastor, speaker, and the founder of Willow Creek Community Church. Known for his practical teaching, he has written extensively on leadership, spiritual growth, and prayer. Get book here
2. “Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God” by Timothy Keller (2014)
Keller dives deeply into the theology and practice of prayer, exploring how it connects us to God on both an intellectual and emotional level. This book draws on biblical principles, historical insights, and practical guidance to help readers develop a prayer life that fosters a profound sense of intimacy with God.
About the Author: Timothy Keller was a pastor, theologian, and founder of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City. Renowned for blending faith and reason, Keller has authored numerous books that bridge theology and everyday life. Get book here
3. “The Circle Maker: Praying Circles Around Your Biggest Dreams and Greatest Fears” by Mark Batterson (2011)
This book encourages bold, faith-filled prayers by teaching readers how to “pray circles” around God’s promises in their lives. Batterson weaves biblical stories and personal testimonies into a compelling guide for cultivating audacious faith and persistent prayer.
About the Author: Mark Batterson is a pastor, speaker, and lead visionary of the National Community Church in Washington, D.C. He is passionate about inspiring Christians to dream big and trust God through powerful prayer. Get book here
These books provide biblical teachings, practical guidance, and inspiring encouragement to help readers build a vibrant prayer life and deepen their relationship with God.
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of prayer and the incredible privilege of drawing near to You. Teach me to seek You with intention, to step away from distractions, and to prioritize our time together, just as Jesus did. Fill my heart with a deeper hunger for Your presence, and guide me to trust You in every moment of my day. Lord, let my prayers be more than words—let them be the foundation of a closer, more intimate relationship with You. Amen.