The King Is ComingSample

Soaking in Silence

When was the last time you soaked in the tub? Hot water healing is nothing new. As early as 2,000 B.C., Egyptians used hot baths to ease pain and invoke relaxation by placing sizzling rocks into water. In Ancient Greece, elaborate structures were built around natural hot springs as early-day hospitals; there, the father of medicine himself—Hippocrates—prescribed soothing soaks as treatment for conditions ranging from jaundice to rheumatism. The word “spa” comes from the Latin term “sanus per aquam” - meaning “health through water.” Battle-weary Roman soldiers routinely used hot wells to recover from their physical and emotional wounds.

While soaking is good for the body, it’s equally good for the soul. Like a bubble bath for the weary heart, soaking in silence is a time of saturating yourself in the presence of God. No words, actions, or thoughts are necessary for soaking. It’s a time of just being, allowing the silence to minister to the busy mind, tired body, and weary soul.

What does soaking in silence look like? It’s hard, but simple. It’s a time of sitting quietly, clearing your mind, and focusing your attention on being silent. It can be for ten minutes or several hours—whatever your schedule and attention span can handle. You can sit, stand, run, walk, drive—whatever enables you to work out your thoughts and relish the quiet. It is a time with few words or noise. Wait and see what God brings to mind during your soak and remember, “let your words be few.”

REFLECT

Like a bubble bath for the weary heart, soaking in silence is a time of saturating yourself in the presence of God.

RESPOND

Remember: Because we’re so used to living in a noisy world, cultivating a quiet mind takes time and practice. Soaking in silence is meant to be a time for resting in the presence of God. No words are necessary

As you practice focusing your mind on being quiet, try giving your brain something to do. Try meditating on a specific word, phrase, or verse of Scripture. Repeat it in your mind to keep yourself focused. Consider each word and what it means. As thoughts come to you, don’t forget to write them down and come back to them when you’re done.