The Need for Silence
Elisabeth Elliot emphasizes the vital role of silence in connecting with God and seeking His wisdom amidst the noise of life.
Elisabeth Elliot emphasizes the importance of silence and stillness in the presence of God, drawing from the imagery of silence in heaven when the seventh seal was opened in Revelation. She challenges listeners to quiet their mouths and open their hearts before God, seeking His will and wisdom above all else. Elliot reminds believers to seek wisdom first from God before turning to godly friends, highlighting the need for a direct connection with the Lord. Ultimately, she encourages the congregation to be still, knowing that God is sovereign and worthy of our reverence and trust.
Text
It is always easier to add to the noise of the world than to be silent. Silence is a very precious thing--"There was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour" (Rv 8:1 AV), when the seventh seal was opened in the Book of the Revelation. Thunder and horses and martyrs and earthquakes had preceded the opening of this seal. Hail, fire, blood, and fearful judgment followed it--but in between, angels stood in the presence of God and there was utter silence.
Have we learned to stand in God's presence, mouths shut, hearts open? "Lord, what do you want me to do?" We must be quiet in order to know Him and to hear Him and to hear Him answer us.
"If any of you lack wisdom let him ask his friends." No. That is not the Word of the Lord. "If any of you lack wisdom let him ask of God" (Jas 1:5 AV) is his Word to us. There is a place for asking wisdom of godly friends, but let us always go first to God.
"Be still"--that is, shut up--"and know that He is God" (Ps 46:10 AV).
Sermon Outline
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I
- The importance of silence in a noisy world
- Biblical examples of silence
- Silence as a means to connect with God
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II
- The challenge of being silent
- Learning to listen to God
- The role of silence in prayer
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III
- Seeking wisdom from God
- Prioritizing God's voice over others
- The necessity of quietness for spiritual growth
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IV
- The significance of stillness in worship
- Silence as a form of reverence
- Creating space for God's presence
Key Quotes
“Silence is a very precious thing--'There was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour.'” — Elisabeth Elliot
“'If any of you lack wisdom let him ask of God.'” — Elisabeth Elliot
“'Be still and know that He is God.'” — Elisabeth Elliot
Application Points
- Set aside dedicated time each day for silence and reflection to deepen your relationship with God.
- Prioritize listening to God's voice over seeking advice from others when faced with decisions.
- Incorporate moments of stillness into your worship to cultivate a greater awareness of God's presence.