With all the busyness of our lives, sometimes we need a time out. The term “time out” is usually associated with a disciplinary action for a child who needs to calm down. But adults also need discipline when it comes to calming down. We may not be angry or out of control, but we may need to quiet our mind and emotions from the collision of responsibilities that try to overwhelm us.

Taking a time out, or taking a break, from a situation to relax – even for a few minutes – has a calming effect on our emotions and helps to clear our thoughts from the clutter of responsibilities. I have been known to say that, “I just need some peace and quiet!” Hah! It’s amazing how the quietness a room without a radio, a pod cast, or the television blaring is golden to our ears! Also, I’ve learned through the years to ask my family for help when I’m trying to get things done around the house. It’s also helpful to delegate some responsibilities on a weekly basis; especially when raising children. It satisfies the instruction of Proverbs 22:6 of training up a child, and it sets the tone in the home for family members learning to work together for the good of the home.

If we truly believe that God speaks in a quiet voice, then we need to eliminate the worldly noise around us so we can hear His voice clearly. In other words, if we have too much going on around us, it is difficult to hear the voice of God. Therefore, we might need a “time out” so we can hear His voice. We must learn to guard against distractions that pull us away from God; and make sure to allow time to draw near to Him. That’s what Jesus did when He pulled away to pray. I think it is a great blessing to learn to take time to pray throughout the day; those short minutes with the Lord guards our heart from becoming impatient or unkind. Think about that.

Luke 5:16 states that Jesus often withdrew into the wilderness and prayed. If Jesus needed to take time during the day to pray, then we certainly need to follow His example and take time during our day to withdraw and pray. Time in the presence of Father God not only keeps us calm and at peace, but I’ve found that it is in those moments that I have also received wisdom on how to handle different  situations.

So I encourage you to treat yourself with a little quiet-time during each day and listen for God’s voice. You might be surprised at how much He really is talking to you.