The Spiritual Life of a LeaderSample

A Spiritual Leader is Fluent in the Language of Silence

In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength. Isaiah 30:15

A five-day silent retreat is not required if you want to hear from God or grow a disciplined walk with Christ. But if you can afford this investment of time, you will not be disappointed. Remember, prayer saves us time by aligning our agendas with God’s agenda. Prayer fuels our faith and empowers our work. Creatively manage your routines around experiencing the Lord in prayer, Bible reflection, and worship. There is a universal language the Lord speaks; it is silence. Quietly read these next few sentences. Perhaps turn off your phone. Listen: The Lord is speaking.

“This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it…Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!” (Isaiah 30:15,18).

Isaiah described the Sovereign Lord’s heart for His people to enjoy their salvation through repentance, rest, quietness, and trust. These attributes were the fuel for their strength. Though they initially resisted, the Lord remained compassionate to remind them of His justice. If they would wait for Him, He would fulfill His promises to His people. Blessings come when we wait for God’s best. When burdens beset us, we don’t panic and act like we are alone, but quietly trust. 

Silence is the soul’s remedy for spiritual fatigue. Be still, be quiet and listen.

Are you becoming fluent in God’s language of silence? Are you able to comprehend what Christ says to your heart through Holy Spirit inspired scripture and through His creation? Be still and know He is God. Be still and know He is. Be still and know Him. Be still and know. Be still. Be. This is something to be learned, just like any new language. A linguist devotes their skill and energy to learn a new language, and in time is conversationally fluent. So, stay immersed in the process. Your heavenly Father is patient to work with you where you are. Also learn from sages who speak the language of silence fluently. God’s language is not to be taken lightly. Silence your heart and you will grow into a disciple who finishes well.

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

“He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake” (Psalm 23:2-3).

Prayer: Heavenly Father, slow me down, so I can hear Your voice, be comforted by Your love and led by Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

How can I work into my schedule a regular rhythm of silence and listening to the Lord?