The Sound of SilenceSample

SILENT DEFENSE

We often find ourselves questioning God in the same way as the disciples did in yesterday’s reading. The problem is that God is under no obligation to defend Himself with words. During Jesus' court trial Pilate was baffled when Jesus refused to utter a single word of defense. "But Jesus said nothing, much to Pilate's surprise" (Mark 15:5, NLT). 

Why are we surprised when God seems silent when we start questioning Him about our lives? In his grace, God has given me thousands of answers throughout the years. We know that God is delighted when we trust Him enough to ask. But when He chooses to teach us greater faith by staying silent for a while, we can still trust in his goodness.

God is good, all the time. This familiar saying is particularly handy during times of silence. “Has the Lord ever needed anyone’s advice? Does He need instruction about what is good?" (Isaiah 40:14, NLT) God knows best, He does not need your advice. And even when He seems silent, He is still good.

It may be his goodness that is keeping Him silent. Perhaps if He had to speak right now, it would have to be words that you would not want to hear. Do you think you might be mistaking God's patience with his absence?