Trusting God’s Silence

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.