Empty Rooms

Coming Alive Through Silence, Solitude, and the Secret Place

By: Justin Rizzo, Rustie Dimitriadis

Narrated by: Justin Rizzo

The need for solitude and silence has never been greater, but our prioritization of these lost arts appears to be at an all-time low.

Our fast-paced, media-driven culture provokes envy for what looks like success in the lives of others — from singers, athletes, and entertainers, to speakers, leaders, and put-together social media influencers, all of whom seem to highlight how mundane our own lives feel. The fact is that many of us resent empty rooms, barren seasons, and dry places, where it seems that nothing we do is making an impact.

In this book, Justin Rizzo presents a much-needed paradigm shift that will have you thanking God for the hidden places in your life. Solitude and silence are not burdens to endure, but gifts to embrace — gifts you will never receive in a crowd, but will only discover in quiet places with God.

This timely and insightful book will awaken excitement in your heart for the secret places in your life as you discover that they are full of potential, purpose, and most importantly, his presence.

Endorsements

"The truths Justin unpacks in the pages of this book give biblical credence and earthly validation to a life of sacrifice, devotion, and wholehearted love." (John and Stasi Eldredge, New York Times best-selling authors)

"Empty Rooms is a divine invitation into deeper communion with Jesus." (Misty Edwards, worship leader)

“Justin writes with authority because he has learned these truths through years of personal experience.” (Mike Bickle, director, International House of Prayer)

"Many write about what they’ve lived for a flash of a moment. Justin writes what he’s learned from his adult lifetime of living. ” (Sara Hagerty, best selling author of Adore and Unseen)

"Justin is writing about something he has personally and deeply touched, and he offers timeless wisdom for anyone wanting to experience the heart of God in their own “empty rooms.” (Jon Thurlow, worship leader)

"Justin has found the secret to sustaining worship — the audience of One." (Laura Hackett Park, worship leader)

©2021 Justin Rizzo (P)2021 Justin Rizzo

Much-needed encouragement

I really enjoyed this listen today. The author narrates the book and encourages all of us to find that secret place and take the opportunity to press into God. Justin Rizzo shares his experiences from years of doing ministry at IHOP in Kansas City and encourages the readers to take those quiet moment to deepen their relationship with God. I know I’m ready to grab a guitar and spend some time singing Scripture after reading this book. I’m thankful for this gem of a book and look forward to Justin’s next one. I love all the many quotes in the book not just from Scripture but also from some other writings I want to read in the future. I highly recommend this book!

Thoughtful Reflections on Silence

What I genuinely liked about Empty Rooms was its clarity and intentional structure, allowing each chapter to build gently on the last while remaining accessible. The authors communicate complex spiritual ideas in a grounded, relatable way, especially when discussing the “secret place” and the role of solitude in transformation. This book is well-suited for readers who are serious about their spiritual walk and open to examining what happens when noise and distraction are removed. Personally, I found it both calming and challenging—it encouraged me to rethink how often I avoid silence and what might actually be waiting for me there.