Week 7: Chapter 6 — Solitude

1.Foster observes that Jesus 'made a habit of withdrawing to lonely places' (Luke 5:16) even at the height of His popularity and ministry. What does it say about Jesus that the most fruitful and needed public minister in history consistently withdrew from the crowd? What does that pattern say to you?

2.He writes that in solitude we discover that 'our worth is not defined by our usefulness.' Do you believe that at a gut level, or do you find that your sense of value is closely tied to how productive or needed you are? Where did that tie come from?

3.Foster distinguishes between outer solitude (physical aloneness) and inner solitude (a settled quietness of spirit that can be maintained even in a crowd). Which is more difficult for you, and why? Can you think of a moment when you have experienced inner solitude in the middle of a busy situation?