40 Things NOT to Give up for Lent: 10.Silence

““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, ESV)

Music is a big part of worship at our church. A few weeks back, we planned a service without any music. It was different. It was even uncomfortable at times. Singing songs on Sunday morning is what we know and what we are comfortable with. We like to make a joyful noise unto God. But have you ever considered making a joyful silence?

But sometimes the greatest act of worship is not to sing a song, but to simply be still. When you visit the Grand Canyon, it is a religious experience. You stand over the edge of the canyon and you are overwhelmed by the size and the beauty. It brings you to a place where you recognize how small you are and that you are part of a creation that is much bigger than you are. As you stand at the edge, you don't sing a song to the Grand Canyon about how great it is. You stand there in silence and awe. You are amazed. There are no words.

We need more silence. We live in a noisy world. When was the last time you experienced silence? So many of us are constantly surrounded by noise. We have grown immune to it. We don't even hear the noise around us. When we encounter silence, it is deafening.

Do you ever find yourself turning on the TV or the radio at home simply to have noise? The silence can be uncomfortable. We create noise, so we are more comfortable.

But in Psalm 46:10 it says to be still to know God. What does that say about our noisy lifestyles? How can you intentionally practice silence and stillness?

Reflection

Take the next 10 minutes just to be still. Don’t do anything. Eliminate as much noise around you as possible. Consider what you hear in the silence.