Navigating Silent SeasonsSample

Here’s another hard one to grasp, but I think it will help you. Perhaps the Lord is taking you through a time of testing. The church cliche is that there can be no testimony without a test. Another phrase to consider is that a good teacher remains silent during tests.

To help encourage you in this situation, consider the test essential for your next step. In school, before we can advance to the next level, there is often a test to examine our competency in the subject. For many of you, God is saying, “You know my ways; you’ve sought me; now this is your opportunity to put into practice what you have learned.” The test isn’t to make you struggle; it’s actually a sign of trust that the Lord has in you to do what He has shown you.

Consider Jesus, who was led by the Spirit in Matthew 4 to be tempted by the Devil. We do not see God giving Jesus the answers during the test; rather, Jesus, who had spent his early years in the temple, knew how to combat the enemy. Jesus’ preparation allowed Him to pass His test.

I encourage you not to view this test as a form of punishment but as an opportunity to trust that you have the strength to handle any situation that comes your way. God trusts you to uphold His teachings, even when He seems silent. Look at the test as an opportunity to give the Devil a black eye and make your Heavenly Father Proud. You know His word, and His will is to prosper you, even during challenging times.

Prayer: Lord, help me see this silence period as a good teacher giving a test. You aren’t testing me to punish me; rather, this is a sign that you trust me. And since I trust you, I know that where you are leading me is where you desire me to be. Help me to recalibrate my mind to accept what you are doing in and through me because it is all working for my good. In Jesus’ name, amen.