There is the perception that activity, motion, doing, and speaking are signs that something productive is happening or being accomplished. Too often though, it is the constant movement and activity that crowds out productivity and thoughtfulness. One angle on the admonition in Psalm 46: 10, “be still and know that I am God “, can be for us to quit the endless round of activity and spend some time in silence. 

 

Finding time to be still and securing a silent space in this increasingly fast-paced world is becoming elusive for many persons. However, periods of silence during our day can calm the nerves and reset priorities. You may even choose to browse through the scripture-based, spirit-inspired content of our Amen App. in these periods of silence, as you connect with your Creator.

 

Benefits of Silence

 

  1. Moving into silence enables us to remove distractions so that we can see and hear God’s will for our lives. One classic biblical example is Elijah’s encounter with God as he hid away from Jezebel in a cave. In 1 Kings 19: 11-13, after the windstorm, earthquake, and fire drama had passed, it was in the ensuing silence, through a gentle whisper, that the prophet distinctly hears the voice of God. It was only in silence that instructions were given.
  2. Holding our peace or keeping silent in particular circumstances is a biblical instruction.  When met with contentious arguments or doctrines that are unprofitable and bring no glory to God, this counsel is important. In writing to Titus, the apostle Paul told him not to engage in debates and arguments about some subjects. So too, the Christian is encouraged to remain silent when an individual persists in their course of such unprofitable discussions. The power of silence is obvious when it comes to diffusing heated situations and calming nerves.
  3. Silence is to be exercised so that we do not sin against God. No evil speaking should come from the person who is walking according to the spirit. “No foul language is to come from your mouth, but only what is good for building up someone in need, so that it gives grace to those who hear.” (Ephesians 4:29) When we guard our lips against speaking ungodly and unbecoming words, people will attest to our silence regarding anything unholy. It is in this aspect of silence that there is a powerful testimony to our faith.
  4. There is nothing that can calm an angry, inflamed situation than silence. When tempers flare, and no one seems to be listening to the other, the person who keeps silent has the power over everyone else. Solomon, the wise bible writer, rightly said; “A fool lets fly with all his temper, but a wise person keeps it back.” Proverbs 29:11. Keeping one’s composure in the midst of a broiling situation can cause others to temper down and reflect on their own behavior.
  5. A place or environment of silence can be a powerful space. One writer posited that “when every other voice is hushed, and in quietness, we wait before Him, the silence of the soul makes more distinct the voice of God. It is the power of silence that gives God’s voice a certain ring.
  6. There remains yet another powerful aspect of silence. This is the power of being still when receiving sound advice. Whether it is getting chiding advice from parents, guidance from senior colleagues, or counsel from our family doctor, it is sensible to be quiet in the face of these encounters. Draw your power from silently, intentionally listening, and consciously deciding to do what you are being told.

 

Silence is indeed golden and we encourage everyone to give it a try.