I Needed the Quiet

By Alice Mortenson

I needed the quiet so He drew me aside

Into the shadows where we could confide,

Away from the bustle where all the day long

I hurried and worried when active and strong.

I needed the quiet though at first I rebelled,

But gently, so gently my cross He upheld,

And whispered so sweetly of spiritual things,

Though weakened in body, my spirit took wings…

To heights never heard of when active and gay,

He loved me so greatly, He drew me away.

I needed the quiet, no prison my bed,

But a beautiful valley of blessings instead –

A place to grow richer in Jesus to hide

I needed the quiet so He drew me aside.

* * * * *

I cannot call affliction sweet;

And yet' twas good to bear;

Affliction brought me to your feet,

And I found comfort there.

‐‐ James Montgomery

Last week, I listened to a broadcast of Joni and Friends, in which she read this poem and quote. They resonated in my heart. I've experienced God drawing me aside. Perhaps you have, too. Perhaps you're in a time now when affliction is bringing you to Him for comfort, or when you are being "drawn aside" by trials, suffering, physical infirmities.  These times in my life stand out, like mountain peaks, as times when God's Hand was upon me, not only drawing me aside, but drawing me closer to Him.


Compliments of Joni and Friends
PO Box 3333 Agoura Hills, CA 91376
www.joniandfriends.org

A special thank you to Joni and Friends, who offered these in a free download.  I hope you will be blessed, as I was, by the thoughts expressed.  The link is below, for you to hear the broadcast, also, if you'd like. 
Listen to the broadcast:
"I Needed the Quiet" by Alice Mortenson - Joni and Friends Radio