A Quiet Place

“A Quiet Place” is a gentle, contemplative hymn by Ralph Carmichael that invites believers to find rest, refreshment, and communion with God. Written in the mid-twentieth century, it reflects the composer’s gift for combining devotional warmth with accessible musical style. The hymn focuses on the importance of withdrawing from the busyness of life to meet God in stillness, echoing biblical themes of rest, retreat, and spiritual renewal.

The hymn draws inspiration from the psalmist’s call to “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10, KJV) and Christ’s invitation to His disciples to come aside for rest (Mark 6:31, KJV). It emphasizes that the Christian life is not only about service or activity, but also about intentional moments of solitude with God, where the soul can be restored and the heart aligned with His will.

A key theme is spiritual refreshment. The hymn presents a quiet place as a sacred space where burdens are laid down, anxieties are eased, and the believer can experience God’s peace. This mirrors Christ’s promise in Matthew 11:28-30 (KJV), where He offers rest for the weary and burdened. By focusing on stillness and listening, worshipers are reminded that intimacy with God comes through both attention and surrender.

The hymn’s gentle tone and lyrical simplicity make it ideal for personal devotion, meditative worship, or moments of reflection within corporate settings. Its melody and words encourage slowing down, letting go of worldly distractions, and encountering God’s presence in a peaceful, contemplative way.

“A Quiet Place” continues to inspire Christians to seek God intentionally, highlighting that rest and stillness are not passive but vital for spiritual health. It reassures believers that in stepping aside to meet the Lord, they will find renewal, guidance, and the sustaining grace needed for daily life.