S12.08 | When God Feels Silent
Have you ever felt like God has gone quiet?
In this episode, Carla shares from her own sabbatical season where God has felt silent - and what He’s been gently revealing in that space. We explore the difference between God’s silence and His absence, the 400 years between Malachi and Matthew, and why God often invites us to act on what He has already said instead of seeking something new.
You’ll also learn what it actually looks like to meet God in the silence, why silence feels so uncomfortable, and how to respond in a way that deepens your trust rather than shakes it.
If you’ve been waiting for clarity, direction, or a fresh word from God, this episode will help you remain grounded, faithful, and connected - even when heaven feels quiet.
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3 key takeaways
Even when God feels quiet, He is still present, still faithful, and still at work. Silence is not abandonment—it’s often an invitation to trust.
We are often called to act on what God has already said
Instead of seeking a new word, God may be inviting you to walk in obedience to the last thing He spoke—through Scripture, conviction, or direction.Silence is where deeper trust and intimacy are formed
Learning to sit in silence, listen, and surrender allows God to reveal what’s beneath the surface and form a steadier, more rooted faith.
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Resources:
5 Steps to Building Resiliency
Affirming Truths Facebook Community
5 Tips for Overcoming a Negative Body Image
Who You Say I Am Biblical Affirmation Cards
Quick recap
Carla discussed the experience of feeling God's silence during times of prayer and seeking direction, emphasizing that God's silence does not indicate His absence. She referenced biblical examples, including the 400-year period between Malachi and Matthew where God was not speaking through prophets, to illustrate that silence doesn't mean God has stopped working. Carla encouraged listeners to focus on trusting the last word God had given them rather than constantly seeking new revelation, and suggested practices for navigating silent periods including reclaiming disciplines like silence and fasting, learning to listen more attentively, and reflecting on past guidance from God. She concluded by sharing her affirming truth that one can trust God even when He feels silent, as He remains present, faithful, and actively working.
God's Silence in Prayer
Carla discussed the experience of feeling God's silence during prayer and seeking, emphasizing that God's silence does not indicate His absence. She referenced scripture, including Psalm 46:1 and Hebrews, to support the idea that God remains present even when He feels quiet. Carla emphasized the importance of understanding that God's silence is not abandonment, encouraging listeners to anchor themselves in this truth.
God's Silence and Divine Guidance
Carla discussed the biblical concept of God's silence, referencing the 400-year period between Malachi and Matthew where no prophetic words were recorded. She explained that during this time, God didn't abandon His people but provided them with His law, promises, and the promise of the Messiah. Carla applied this concept to modern situations, noting that people often want new direction from God while not fully responding to previous guidance, suggesting that God might be inviting them to trust and act on what has already been revealed rather than seeking new revelation.
Navigating Silence in Modern World
Carla discussed the challenges of navigating silence in a world filled with constant noise and immediate access to information. She emphasized that silence can help individuals reflect on their inner thoughts and assess their obedience to previous divine guidance. Carla highlighted how people often distract themselves with good things rather than embracing silence, which can slow them down enough to truly connect with themselves and God.
Navigating God's Silence Seasons
Carla shared her approach to navigating seasons when God feels silent, emphasizing the importance of clinging to the last word God has spoken and fully embracing that truth. She advised continuing to seek God through His Word and prayer, even when not feeling a direct connection, and suggested learning to listen more actively to what God is saying rather than just talking to Him. Carla also recommended reclaiming spiritual disciplines like silence and fasting as ways to deepen intimacy with God during these periods.
Embracing Silence for Spiritual Growth
Carla discussed the challenges of sitting in silence and the importance of embracing discomfort for spiritual growth. She explained that silence often brings up buried emotions and thoughts, but it is through these quiet periods that God can form deeper connections with us. Carla emphasized the need to trust in God's last word and suggested anchoring oneself in truth, particularly through the verse "Be still and know that I am God" from Psalm 46:10. She concluded by noting that God's silence is not abandonment and that learning to listen to His whispers is crucial.
God's Silence and Presence
Carla discussed the concept of God's silence, explaining that while it may initially feel empty, it can become a source of safety and presence. She encouraged the audience to reflect on the last thing God had said to them and to trust in His promises until He speaks again. Carla referenced scripture from Psalms about God being good to those who wait for Him, emphasizing that His silence is not abandonment but an invitation to sit with Him and reflect.