Trusting God’s Silence

silence, quiet, peace, tranquility, calm, stillness, meditation, solitude, serenity, peaceful moment, hushed, noiseless

A Reflection for St. John’s Presbyterian Church

By The Rev. Dr Jon Burnham, St. John’s Presbyterian Church, Houston, Texas

When prayers go unanswered and God feels distant, the silence can ache. Psalm 22:1 captures this cry: “My God, why have You forsaken me?” At St. John’s Presbyterian Church in Houston, we’re learning that God’s silence isn’t absence—it’s an invitation to deeper trust.

Jesus Himself felt this on the cross (Matthew 27:46), yet called God “My God.” Like Abraham waiting for a child or Hannah praying in silence (1 Samuel 1:13), God’s quiet seasons prepare us for His greater work. Silence strips away distractions, revealing our fears and building unshakable faith.

Try This: Waiting Prayer

Find a quiet Houston spot—your home or a park. For 10–15 minutes:

Sit, breathe, and pray, “Here I am, Lord.”
Let go of agendas. Just be with God.
If thoughts wander, gently return to stillness.

At St. John’s, let’s embrace God’s silence as a gift, trusting He’s shaping us for His purpose in Houston and beyond.

Prayer

Lord, guide us at St. John’s to trust Your silence.

Teach us to wait with faith, knowing You are near.

Amen.

Learn more in the book When You Choose Silence on Amazon

(https://a.co/d/1FRcgoN) for more on living with intention.

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About the Author

pastor houston, st johns presbyterian, bellaire texas church, serving since 1956, presbyterian pastor, west bellfort church

Pastor Jon has served St. John's Presbyterian Church in Houston for over a decade and is the author of 50+ books on Christian living available on Amazon.

He is an innovator in both the community and at the church, bringing in major initiatives like the Single Parent Family Ministry housing with PCHAS, the One Hope Preschool program, and expanding the community garden that brings together church members and neighbors.

Under his leadership, St. John's has become known for practical service that makes a real difference in the community.

His approach is simple: "We're real people who worship and serve Jesus Christ with no frills."