Stillness That Strengthens: Building a Life of Prayer Like Jesus

In a world of constant noise and unrelenting demands, quiet moments can feel like a luxury. This is especially true for those of us in children’s ministry or parenting. But Jesus, the Savior of the world, made solitude a priority. If He needed time in the secret place of prayer, how much more do we?

In Mark 1:21–35, we find Jesus immersed in a demanding day of ministry. He taught in the synagogue. He cast out a demon. He healed Peter’s mother-in-law. Then He ministered to an entire town crowded around the doorstep. Yet what did He do the very next morning?

“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” (Mark 1:35)

Jesus withdrew to the secret place of prayer. He did this not because He had nothing else to do. Rather, He knew everything He had to do depended on communion with the Father.

Why the Secret Place Matters

In Matthew 6:6, Jesus tells us:

“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

The Greek word for “room” here refers to an inner chamber—windowless, hidden, private. It’s not just about physical space; it’s about focused, undistracted intimacy with God. The secret place is where we quiet the world. We quiet our hearts. We draw near to the One who’s already waiting for us.

Children’s ministry leaders, parents, and volunteers—you are pouring out all the time. If your well is empty, your ministry will feel dry and exhausting. But when you meet with God in the secret place, your heart is refilled and your vision is renewed.

How to Follow Jesus into the Secret Place

1. Establish a Morning Rhythm

Start your day with God before the demands of ministry or family take over. Prepare the night before—set out your Bible, journal, and whatever helps you focus. Put your phone away and ask God to meet you in that sacred time.

Here’s a simple rule to try: Do not use your phone for the first hour of the day. Also, avoid using it during the last hour before bed. Watch how this one habit begins to shape your spiritual rhythm. (BTW, this one is really hard for me)

2. Practice Fixed Hours of Prayer

Scripture is filled with examples of believers pausing throughout the day to pray (see Acts 3:1, Daniel 6:10, Psalm 119:164). Maybe try setting an alarm for a few minutes at noon. You could also set one at 3 PM. Use this time to pause, pray, and realign your heart.

You don’t need fancy words. A simple “Lord, I’m here. Help me see you in this moment,” can be all it takes to refocus.

One helpful resource is Pray WITH God: A Guide For Parents.

3. Go on a Prayer Walk

This is a perfect way to pray for your neighborhood, school, church campus, or workplace. Walk and talk with Jesus—pray silently or aloud, whatever works for you.

Here are a few places to prayer walk:

Around your children’s ministry space before service
Through your neighborhood with your kids
Around your school campus
During a break at work

Pray blessings over families, healing over broken situations, and ask God to bring His Kingdom wherever your feet go.

Jesus Is Already There

One of the most beautiful truths about the secret place is this: God is already there, waiting.

“Pray to your Father, who is in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”(Matthew 6:6)

The reward isn’t flashy—it’s God Himself. The secret place isn’t about performance; it’s about presence. When we show up, He meets us.

And when we’re filled up, we have something to pour out. You lead and parent differently when you’ve been with Jesus. This is true whether you’re prepping crafts for Sunday, packing lunches before school, leading a team, or comforting a hurting child.