A "private setting" in biblical terms often refers to moments or places of solitude, seclusion, or personal reflection, where individuals engage in prayer, meditation, or intimate conversations with God. The concept of seeking a private setting is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the importance of personal communion with God away from the distractions of the world.

Biblical Instances of Private Settings:

1. Jesus' Solitude for Prayer:
Jesus frequently sought private settings to pray and commune with the Father. In the Gospel of Matthew, it is recorded, "After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. When evening came, He was there alone" (Matthew 14:23). This illustrates the importance Jesus placed on solitude for spiritual renewal and guidance.

2. The Secret Place:
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus instructs His followers on the value of private prayer: "But when you pray, go into your inner room, shut your door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you" (Matthew 6:6). This teaching underscores the significance of a private setting for sincere and humble communication with God.

3. Elijah's Encounter with God:
The prophet Elijah experienced a profound encounter with God in a private setting. After fleeing to Horeb, the mountain of God, Elijah found himself in a cave where he heard the "still small voice" of the Lord (1 Kings 19:11-13). This narrative highlights how God often speaks in the quietness of solitude.

4. Jacob's Wrestling with God:
Jacob's transformative encounter with God occurred in a private setting. Alone at the ford of Jabbok, Jacob wrestled with a divine being until daybreak, resulting in a blessing and a new identity as Israel (Genesis 32:24-28). This event signifies the personal and intimate nature of divine encounters in secluded settings.

Theological Significance:

Private settings in the Bible are often associated with moments of divine revelation, personal transformation, and spiritual empowerment. They provide a space for individuals to withdraw from the noise of daily life and focus on their relationship with God. Such settings are crucial for introspection, repentance, and receiving divine guidance.

Practical Application:

Believers are encouraged to seek private settings for prayer and meditation, following the example of biblical figures. These moments of solitude can strengthen one's faith, provide clarity in decision-making, and foster a deeper connection with God. The practice of retreating to a private setting is a spiritual discipline that nurtures the soul and aligns the believer's heart with God's will.

In summary, the concept of a private setting in the Bible serves as a powerful reminder of the need for personal and intimate communion with God, away from the distractions and demands of the world.