What started as a pause in our
conversation, extended into silence. The distance between us felt as far as our
phones were apart. I counted the seconds from my friend’s last word. Every part
of me wanted to jump into the empty space. As an extrovert, I felt
uncomfortable with what seemed like an awkward silence. Usually, I would take
this as either a cue to say something or bring the conversation to a
close. Practicing what I had learned in
a three-day communication skills training class, I tried patience for a change.
As it turned out, it was not an awkward silence. I gave him time to reflect and
in turn say something meaningful to me. Had I spoken up, neither of us would
have gained from this level of insight and intimacy. A smile crept onto my face. I could not
believe it. For the first time, I was learning the beauty of silence. After
this experience, I began to listen better with my kids and anyone who came into
my path, be it on the phone or in person; a dear friend or a new acquaintance.
Silence is not only the absence of
sound, but also the presence of an inner stillness if we are open to it. To
truly listen, we must concentrate on what is being said and not on formulating
a response. It is giving the other person total attention. It is quieting our
mind.
In reflecting on the discovery of
the importance of being quiet, I realized that I was filling the silence during
my time with God. I often aimlessly chattered. From my lessons on listening, I
saw that I was talking, not communicating; rambling, not connecting. God gave
me many clues in the Bible and in my life, but I could not hear them over my
own voice.
We can not hear God’s voice until
we learn to be still. Psalms 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God”, tells us
what it takes to know Him. His presence is always around, but in failing to
develop the skill of blocking out the many distractions of our modern world and
our incessant thoughts, we are unable to hear Him. Many times, instead of a
great wind or a thundering crash, He comes in a whisper. He wants an intimate
relationship where we are close enough to hear His soft voice. Then we can find
bliss in having God in our still heart. Reading the Bible shows us examples.
Grace gives us the patience to wait on Him and the strength to act when we
hear. In obedience, we develop an assurance that allows us to step out in
faith. With grace, patience, confidence and strength, we intuitively know when
He speaks and can humbly listen.
God is inviting you to listen. Can
you hear Him? I pray that you and I find stillness as we walk in His presence.
