1. The World is Getting Noisier 

Psalm 46:10 (NIV) – “Be still, and know that I am God.”

Bernie Krause, who records nature sounds, said that in 1968 it took him 15 hours to capture one hour of pure nature. Today, it takes him 2,000 hours. Our world is louder than ever—traffic, media, constant activity, and even our own thoughts.

Question:

What kinds of “noise” fill your life, and how might they be making it harder to “be still” and know God?

2. Silence is Hard, but Necessary  

Psalm 4:4 (NIV) – “Search your hearts and be silent.”

We often avoid silence because we’re uncomfortable with it or afraid of what we might hear from God or ourselves. Sometimes, we spend more time talking to God about our problems than listening for His voice.

Question:

When was the last time you spent real time in silence, simply listening for God? What keeps you from making space for quiet in your life?

3. Jesus Modeled Silence and Solitude 

Luke 5:16 (NIV) – “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”*

Even Jesus needed regular time alone with the Father. If He needed it, how much more do we? Our schedules and surroundings are often filled with people and noise, leaving little room for God’s gentle whisper.

Question: 

What could you change in your daily routine to create space for silence and solitude, so you can hear God’s voice more clearly?**

Take time this week to intentionally seek silence. Turn off the noise, withdraw like Jesus did, and listen. God may be waiting to speak to you—not in the noise, but in the stillness.  

See also: Matthew 11:28; 1 Kings 19:11-13