Closing the Door to Find God
One of the early Christian writers describes the first stage of solitary prayer as the experience of a man who, after years of living with open doors, suddenly decides to shut them. The visitors who used to come and enter his home start pounding on his doors, wondering why they are not allowed to enter. Only when they realize that they are not welcome do they gradually stop coming.
This is the experience of anyone who decides to enter into solitude after a life without much spiritual discipline. At first, the many distractions keep presenting themselves. Later, as they receive less and less attention, they slowly withdraw.
—Henri J. M. Nouwen,
Making All Things New
Henri Nouwen’s image of shutting the door after years of leaving it open speaks powerfully to anyone learning to quiet their mind—especially in the midst of anxiety, addiction, or mental exhaustion. When we first seek solitude or try to pray, the distractions don’t just disappear—they pound louder. Old habits, intrusive thoughts, inner noise—they all push back when we begin to say no. But here’s the hope: over time, what once demanded our attention begins to fade. Stillness is not immediate, but it is possible. And in that stillness, God meets us. If your inner life feels chaotic today, don’t be discouraged by the noise. Keep showing up. Keep closing the door. In time, the peace of God will fill the room. —DH
—David Hoskins, Founder & Care Guide, Sanctuary Clinics