A Return To The Secret Place Series

A RETURN TO THE SECRET PLACE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 6:6

"But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly."

Supporting Texts: Psalm 91:1, Mark 1:35, Exodus 33:9-11, Luke 5:16

INTRODUCTION

In an age of distractions, busyness, and constant noise, the need to return to the secret place of intimacy with God has never been greater. The secret place represents a life of deep personal fellowship with God, where we commune with Him in prayer, worship, and meditation on His Word. It is where God reveals His heart, renews our strength, and aligns us with His will.

Throughout Scripture, men and women who walked closely with God valued the secret place. Moses met with God in the tent of meeting (Exodus 33:9-11), David longed for God’s presence (Psalm 27:4), and Jesus regularly withdrew to pray (Mark 1:35). If Jesus, the Son of God, needed time alone with the Father, how much more do we?

Returning to the secret place is not just about prayer; it is about cultivating an intimate relationship with God. It is about shutting out the world to seek Him with all our hearts. This sermon will explore the importance of returning to the secret place, the blessings it brings, and practical steps to deepen our walk with God.

1. THE SECRET PLACE IS A PLACE OF INTIMACY WITH GOD

a) It Is a Personal and Private Fellowship

The secret place is where we meet God one-on-one, away from distractions (Matthew 6:6).

b) It Is a Place of Deep Revelation

God shares secrets with those who dwell in intimacy with Him (Jeremiah 33:3).

c) It Strengthens Our Relationship with God

The more time we spend in the secret place, the closer we get to God (James 4:8).

d) It Is a Place of Refreshing and Renewal

In the presence of God, our spirits are revived (Isaiah 40:31).

e) Biblical Example: Moses in the Tent of Meeting

Moses met with God face to face, and his relationship with God deepened (Exodus 33:9-11).

2. THE SECRET PLACE IS A PLACE OF POWER AND SPIRITUAL STRENGTH

a) It Is Where We Draw Strength for the Journey

Jesus withdrew to pray and was strengthened for His ministry (Luke 5:16).

b) It Is a Place of Divine Encounters

Many biblical figures experienced divine visitations in the secret place (Genesis 32:24-28).

c) It Empowers Us to Overcome Challenges

Spiritual battles are won in the secret place before they manifest physically (Ephesians 6:12-18).

d) It Increases Our Spiritual Authority

The more time we spend with God, the more we carry His presence and power (Acts 4:13).

e) Biblical Example: Elijah’s Strength from the Secret Place

Elijah's time with God sustained him in times of drought and spiritual warfare (1 Kings 19:9-12).

3. THE SECRET PLACE IS A PLACE OF DIVINE GUIDANCE AND DIRECTION

a) God Reveals His Plans in the Secret Place

When we seek God in secret, He gives us divine instructions (Isaiah 30:21).

b) It Is a Place of Clarity and Wisdom

Confusion is removed when we wait on God in prayer (Proverbs 3:5-6).

c) It Helps Us Discern God's Will

Major decisions should be made in the presence of God (Acts 13:2-3).

d) It Aligns Us with Divine Timings

Many miss God’s timing due to a lack of secret place intimacy (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

e) Biblical Example: Jesus Seeking Direction in Prayer

Before making major decisions, Jesus spent time in prayer (Luke 6:12-13).

4. THE SECRET PLACE IS A PLACE OF SUPERNATURAL PROTECTION

a) Dwelling in the Secret Place Secures Divine Protection

Those who abide in God's presence are shielded from harm (Psalm 91:1-2).

b) It Covers Us from the Attacks of the Enemy

Satan cannot penetrate a life hidden in God (Colossians 3:3).

c) It Is a Refuge in Times of Trouble

No matter what happens around us, the secret place is our safe haven (Psalm 46:1).

d) It Shields Us from the Spirit of Fear

Fear disappears when we live in the presence of God (2 Timothy 1:7).

e) Biblical Example: Daniel’s Protection through Prayer

Daniel’s commitment to the secret place kept him safe from his enemies (Daniel 6:10, 22).

5. HOW TO RETURN TO THE SECRET PLACE

a) Set Aside Quality Time for God Daily

Develop a consistent prayer life (Psalm 5:3).

b) Eliminate Distractions

Turn off unnecessary noise and focus on God (Matthew 14:23).

c) Engage in Deep Worship and Meditation

True worship opens the heavens (John 4:24).

d) Study and Meditate on God's Word

God speaks through His Word in the secret place (Joshua 1:8).

e) Pray for Fresh Hunger for God's Presence

Ask God to stir a deeper longing for Him (Psalm 42:1-2).