The Hour of Isolation
In times of divine silence, we must learn to trust and depend on God, commit all things to Him, and know that we remain the object of His incredible love.
David Wilkerson speaks about the experience of divine silence and the feelings of confusion and isolation that can accompany it. He reflects on the times when God seems distant, urging believers to trust in God's presence even in moments of turmoil and unanswered prayers. Wilkerson emphasizes that such periods are opportunities for growth in trust and dependence on God, reminding us that we are still loved by Him despite our struggles. He encourages listeners to stand firm in their faith, knowing that God is sovereign and will eventually provide guidance and comfort.
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I know what it is like to face divine silence, not to hear God's voice for a season. I have walked through periods of total confusion with no apparent guidance, the still small voice behind me completely silent. There were times when I had no friend nearby to satisfy my heart with a word of advice. All my patterns of guidance from before had gone awry, and I was left in total darkness. I could not see my way, and I made mistake after mistake. I wanted to say, "O God, what has happened? I don't know which way to go!"
Does God really hide his face from those he loves? Isn't it possible he lifts his hand for a short while to teach us trust and dependence? The Bible answers clearly: "God left him [Hezekiah], to try him, that he might know all that was in his heart" (2 Chronicles 32:31).
You may be going through a flood of trials right now. You know what I'm talking about when I say the heavens are as brass. You know all about repeated failures. You've waited and waited for answers to prayer. You've been served a cup of affliction. Nothing and nobody can touch that need in your heart!
That's the time to take your stand! You don't have to be able to laugh or rejoice, because you may not have any happiness at the moment. In fact, you may have nothing but turmoil in your soul. But you can know God is still with you, because Scripture says, "The Lord sitteth upon the flood; yea, the Lord sitteth King for ever" (Psalm 29:10).
Soon you will hear His voice: Don't get excited, don't panic. Just keep your eyes on me. Commit all things to me. And you will know that you remain the object of his incredible love.
Sermon Outline
- The Reality of Divine Silence
- The Purpose of God's Silence
- Taking a Stand in the Midst of Trials
- Knowing God is still with us
- Committing all things to God
- Experiencing God's love and guidance
Key Quotes
“You don't have to be able to laugh or rejoice, because you may not have any happiness at the moment.” — David Wilkerson
“Commit all things to me.” — David Wilkerson
“The Lord sitteth upon the flood; yea, the Lord sitteth King for ever” — David Wilkerson
Application Points
- When facing trials and afflictions, take a stand and commit all things to God.
- Trust and dependence on God are essential in times of divine silence.
- God's silence is often a test of our faith and trust in Him.