I have often felt that the most important activity a Christian can do is to cultivate a vibrant and joyous quiet time alone with the Lord. Another word for this daily devotional quiet time, alone with Jesus, which I really like, is the “inner chamber.” And it’s in the inner chamber where I believe we learn intimacy with Jesus, develop power for ministry, and become more conformed to Christ.
One of the greatest proponents of the importance of the need for spending time alone with the Lord in the inner chamber was the South African writer/preacher Andrew Murray. According to Murray: “Nowhere can we get to know the holiness of God, and come under His influence and power, except in the inner chamber. It has been well said: ‘No man can expect to make progress in holiness who is not often and long alone with God.’”1 Murray understood, as I am learning more and more myself, that my daily quiet time is a so essential, that if I miss a day without it, I am missing out on the best use of my time and the most joyous activity known to man.
I have also found that the more time I spend alone with Jesus, the more my inner chamber time becomes a delight instead of a duty. Picture it this way: what can be more enjoyable and awesome than having an intimate one-on-one relationship with the Creator of the universe. Jesus is always willing to devote His sole attention to us whenever we decide to enter into His presence. Not only that but He will never rush to finish His conversation with us. Instead, He loves to spend time with us and share just how much He loves us.
For me my inner chamber time is early in the morning when I am the only one up. I love to listen to the audio Bible. I read several devotionals. I also incorporate my daily prayers. In addition, I usually start writing my daily devotionals right after my morning devotions alone with Jesus. For me spending time alone with Jesus is the highlight of my day!
I would love to hear how you spend your morning or evening time alone with Jesus. And if you aren’t making time alone with Jesus a regular part of your day, may I challenge you to do so – I guarantee you will be blessed! If you want more joy in your life, power for ministry, and intimacy with the Lord, then make your inner chamber time a priority – you won’t be disappointed.
1 Andrew Murray – Nowhere can we get to know the holiness of God,… (bibleportal.com)