Silence helps us hear God's voice

Many voices compete for our attention. The demands of employment, family obligations and other activities seldom leave a quiet time in our busy schedules. Finding time is important for bodies and souls. Let's get alone with God and keep silent. After all life can only be lived one day at a time. We can only accomplish a task one at a time and it takes some silence.

I like to read this scripture when I'm stressed. "Be still and know that I am God I will be exdalted among the heathen, I wil be exalted in the earth" (Psalm 46:10KJV).

The busyness of the day has a way of dominating the mind at bedtime and that deprives sleep. Silence calms the mind and restores inner peace.

I like the story of how Elijah found the voice of God: "And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord. And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice" (1 Kings 19:11-12, KJV).

I can't hear God's voice unless I relax and keep silent. Neither can I find peace or comfort if I am thinking about other schedules. Being quiet brings peace.

There is a time however to be vocal. Certainly a voice needs to be heard in unfairness and mistreatment of others. Remaining silent where wrong prevails is exhibiting approval. Our voice surely should be heard in defense of human rights and freedom.

Noise pollution can destroy hearing. The "Great Physician" soothes the soul and calms the mind in any circumstance. Whoever said, "Silence is Golden" realized a great truth.

I have a quiet time in my garden and I've found it's good for taking away stress. I am designating quiet time before God to maintain my balance in a restless world.

You can find a quiet place too for your busy day. Focus your mind on God and let his peace minister to you. Keep silence before him. You will find a treasure. It's another beautiful gift.

"Be still and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10).

Portales resident Joan Clayton is a retired teacher and published author. Her e-mail address is:

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