The Blessing of Silence

By Fatoki Ifeoluwa

Devotional Reading: He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” – Psalm 46:10 KJV

Ours is a busy world. The hustle and bustle around us make it almost impossible to have things quiet, even during the night. In metropolitan areas, you might find a sliver of quiet in the early morning hours; to get a taste of true silence, however, you have to go to more rural areas. Have you ever heard or experienced the difference?

True silence contains no background noise at all. No one is driving by, shouting, or honking, and there is no hum and buzz of a thousand little noises in the distance. There are few places left on earth where we can truly experience silence.

Psalm 46 calls us to sample some silence. Silence allows us to ponder on God’s goodness and the other lessons in this reading, such as his lordship over the whole world (Psalm 47) and His role as our guide and protector (Psalm 48). God is almighty and all-powerful. Psalm 46 says “God’s voice thunders, and the earth melts” (46:6). God has far greater power than even the most powerful forces of nature (46:2-3) or of humankind (46:6, 9). How fitting, then, for us to accord Him some reverence—to stand quietly before Him, worshipfully honouring Him and His power and majesty (46:10).

With the busyness and burdens of life weighing us down, why should we take the time to stand still? What is the benefit of being silent before God? Spending time in silence is an opportunity to forget about all of the worldly distractions that keep us from experiencing God’s presence in His fullness. It’s an opportunity to focus on God’s goodness, mercy, might, and power.

Take time today and every day to experience silence, and use it to ponder the awesome greatness of God. Be still and silent before God so that you can exalt Him. Let silence give you the opportunity to worship. There is nothing better than worship in His presence.

Prayer and Confession
Dear Father, please help me to take leave of the busyness of the world, and to stand silent in worship before You.

Further Reading: Psalm 46