Women’s Ministry Minute
May 22, 2020
With Stacy Clemmons
Silence is defined as the complete absence of sound.
Our most vulnerable moments of reflection are done in silence. It is during this time that we rest our thoughts in painful moments, accomplishments, and future goals. Silence is where God reaches the core of our identity. Our very existence came in a whisper from the mighty breath of God.
A noise comes in different forms, including conflict within relationships, media outlets, and our own negative thoughts. It is in this noise that chaos, sadness, and calling on our Father is lost. During these times, answered prayer can seem like wishes. God's voice is lost because the volume of our lives is too loud sono wonder the definition of noise is described as a loud or unpleasant sound that causes a disturbance.
What happens when silence is corrupted with noise?
All too often, I find myself engulfed in work, school, and family engagements. Times of reflection seem scarce, and when I pray I feel a lack of emotions. I call out for guidance from God, but I cannot hear his answers. I long to have a meaningful relationship but realize that it is challenging because I put everything else before him. All these things, situations, movements, and activities create a louder noise that distracts me from hearing God.
Paul, the apostle, reminds us in 1 Corinthians 7:35 about having as few distractions possible so that we can serve the Lord best. The only way we can serve our God is by listening. If our life is filled with noise (crowded out by the worries/obligations of life, Mark 4:19), how can we hear?
I ask you this, what would happen if we woke up before the sun opened its eyes, paused in the middle of our craziness, bowed our heads, and sat in the middle of nothing? What would we gain if we set our minds at ease and put God front and center?
We would be able to experience a life-changing moment because the space we filled with activities, lectures, jobs, etc. is now free from polluted noise and now is filled with his love, answers, and grace.
I encourage you to turn down the volume in some areas of your life and turn up God's voice while you wait in silence.