It is difficult when we go to God for something and he appears not to answer our prayers. It is in those times that we must have faith in the waiting. however, it becomes easy for that small voice in our head to say things like God is not listening to you. Why would God grant your prayer? You are not worthy of an answer. That small voice is the enemy, creeping into our head and sowing seeds of doubt in our relationship with God. The enemy wants us to think God has forgotten about us. He wants us to doubt ourselves and God’s infinite timing.
Why is God Silent?
When God does not answer in our time, we start to ask the question, where is God? We start to feel forgotten. We, as believers, have to remember that God does not work on our timeline and His answer to our prayer may not fit into our expected response. He is still there in the midst of His silence; he’s listening to our prayers. God never leaves us nor forsakes us.
God’s Answer May Not Be What You Expect
God’s answer to your prayer request may be a flat out no. The “No” answer stems from the fact that the request does not fit into the plan he has for your life. Remember, as believers, it is God’s plan and not ours which we should embrace.
His answer could also be yes, but not now. In saying, not now, God may be keeping you safe from some unseen danger that lies ahead. Whatever the reason, remember God’s time is not our time. Waiting on God’s perfect timing for your yes answer may bring forth a reality you never thought possible.
“But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: with the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand yeas are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. instead He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:8-9 NIV)
The answer could also be that you must wait because you are not ready. Remember God is writing our story. He sees the big picture. We are at a point in time; only seeing one piece of a very large puzzle representing our life.
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways may ways,’ declares the Lord. ‘As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.’” (Isiah 55:8-9 NIV)
God is Silent but not Absent
Remember, in God’s silence, He is still there. In this season of silence, shift your focus from asking for a specific outcome to seeking God’s presence. in seeking Him, you will strengthen your relationship with Him.
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-23 NIV)
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:6-6 NIV)
In the end, whatever the answer, Wait on the lord!
Question to ponder: Have you ever experienced a season of silence that later turned into a blessing? Share your story in the comments.
