The Silence of God

I’ve noticed a silence. A rhythm of sorts. A rhythm with God. It’s the kind of thing that I didn’t recognize when I was younger. But since I’ve walked with Him for quite some time now… It’s finally making an impression on me. I can be a slow learner.

A whirlwind of activity marked the beginning of my year. Launching a book, podcast interviews, and learning a lot of new things as a first-time author. The year leading up to this was nothing short of amazing. God moved. Mainly me. He called me to action, and finally, I obeyed. I am still seeing the fruits of all this, and I know I will continue – it’s a sweet place to be when we finally lay ourselves down and say yes to that still, small voice. 

But that same voice that called me to action seems quieter now, and it makes me wonder. It’s a special kind of wonderment because it’s not the kind of silence that makes me afraid or unsure that God is still here or that he will show me what’s next.

No, it’s that kind of wonderment that’s comfortable, just like being cuddled up with a favorite blanket on my couch near the fire. I know God is right here. I feel His presence. I see him moving in situations, but something about Him is quieter just now.  

For me, His quietness feels like a big exhale or a chance for me to catch my breath. It may be that it is summer, and you know what they say about summer - lazy days. But really, it’s a different kind of quiet—a soothing mist sort of thing.

As I write this, I can hear my grandfather’s clock ticking in my office. It’s a repetitive, calming sound, almost like hearing my pulse. In another moment, I imagine ocean waves gently rolling in to touch my toes, and I haven’t even been to the beach yet. 

Thank you, God, that you are calming my body and mind with your silence. Giving me space to reorient myself in this clattery world. Thank you for your sometimes stillness.

Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.

Psalm 62:5

Some might worry or cry out, “Where are you, God?” “I can’t hear from you.” “What about this? “What about that?” “I’ve been praying to you, but I’m getting no answer.” “Where are you? “

Let me encourage you. Jesus is here with us. Watching over us, and thank goodness He operates on a different time clock than we do. He has all the time in the world to listen to you, be patient with you, and understand where you are coming from. He knows me, and He knows you. 

I have been discovering that when we let ourselves be still and tune in to God’s silence, it can be like medicine. Medicine for the soul. It feels like I can finally take that walk in a dreamy valley of wildflowers. I can feel the petals touch my open palms as I stroll barefoot through the beautiful, imaginary field. 

Yes, there are things to get done, closets to clean out, parents to see about. Plus, our world continues in its political and social struggles. But, God is still with us.

I just returned from a writer’s conference with a scroll of things to do as a writer and author. But for now, in the daily hustle and bustle, I can hear God calling, “Walk with me – let’s rest.” His stillness is helping me to be still in my spirit, and yes, I certainly need it.  

Thank you, God, that you are sometimes silent. Thank you for giving me a moment to exhale. You know what I need always. You are with me. You are with anyone who calls on your name. Your silence is your love for me, your way of slowing me down and letting me just be in my heart and in my soul. What a meadowy, ocean-wavy, take a nap on my couch kind of place to be! 

Thank you, God, for your silence.