GROW IN FAITH 17 – Silence

Learning to Be Still Before God

Opening Prayer

Lord,
You are always near.
Help us to be still.
Teach us to listen in silence
and to rest in Your presence.
Amen.

Part One

Why Silence Matters

We live in a noisy world.

There are voices,
music,
notifications,
conversations,
screens,
and constant movement.

Noise is not always bad.
But if we never become quiet,
it becomes hard to listen.

God does not usually shout.

He speaks gently.

The Bible says:

“Be still, and see that I am God.”

Silence helps us notice that God is near.

Scripture

“Be still, and see that I am God.”
(Psalm 45:11)

Think and Discuss

When is it hardest for you to be quiet?

Why do you think silence can feel uncomfortable?

What might we notice in silence that we miss in noise?

How could silence help us pray better?

Allow time for thoughtful answers.

Part Two

What Happens in Silence

Silence is not empty.

It is space.

In silence we may begin to notice:

Our thoughts.
Our worries.
Our gratitude.
Our need for God.

At first, silence can feel strange.

We may feel restless.
We may want to fill it quickly.

But if we remain,
peace begins to grow.

God often speaks in quiet ways:

Through Scripture.
Through conscience.
Through a calm sense of what is right.
Through a gentle nudge to act with kindness.

Silence allows us to hear.

Guidance for Adults

Do not expect instant calm.
Children may find silence difficult at first.
Begin with short moments and let them grow gradually.

Part Three

Learning to Practise Silence

Silence is something we learn.

We can practise it in small ways:

Before speaking.
Before reacting.
Before praying.
After reading Scripture.

Even one minute of quiet
can change the heart.

Silence helps us:

Slow down.
Listen carefully.
Choose wisely.
Notice God.

Jesus Himself went away to quiet places to pray.

If silence mattered to Him,
it should matter to us.

Over time,
silence becomes less uncomfortable
and more peaceful.

It becomes a place where we meet God.

Quiet Reflection

Sit together in silence for one full minute.

Do not speak.

Simply breathe slowly
and remember that God is near.

If your mind wanders,
quietly say:

“Lord, I am here.”

Practise This Week

Choose one:

• Sit in silence for one minute each day.
• Turn off one source of noise for a short time.
• Pause before answering when someone speaks.
• Spend one quiet moment after prayer before moving on.

Choose one and keep it steady.

Optional Response

Choose one:

Memory
Repeat slowly:
“Be still.”
Say it three times with attention.

Action
Sit upright and place your hands gently in your lap.
Close your eyes briefly and say:
“I am still before You.”

Closing Prayer

Lord,
Teach us to be still.
Calm our restless hearts.
Help us listen for Your voice
in the quiet.
Amen.