When God Goes Quiet
Jeremy Skaggs   -   November 24, 2024

As we lead into Advent we are focusing on spiritual silence—when God doesn’t speak. Our sermon explores the journey of Abraham and Sarah, focusing on God’s promises and the challenges of waiting.

We will delve into how God’s timing, though often challenging, serves a greater purpose.

The sermon discusses the importance of trust during periods of silence from God and how these times can be opportunities for spiritual growth and preparation for God’s blessings.

Takeaways:

  • God’s silence is purposeful: Sometimes, what feels like God’s silence is actually a time of preparation and growth. We must resist the temptation of “Cognitive Chaos” and continue to trust in God’s promises.
  • Extreme circumstances showcase God’s power: When situations seem impossible (like Abraham and Sarah having a child in old age), it’s an opportunity for God to demonstrate His sovereignty and glory.
  • Our waiting impacts others: The delays we experience may be part of God’s plan to position others to receive His blessings alongside us.

As we navigate our own seasons of waiting, let’s remember that God is always working, even in silence. Our faith during these times can be a powerful testimony to others.

May we all grow in patience and trust as we wait on the Lord.

Wishing you all a wonderful and joyful Thanksgiving this week!

Blessings,

Pastor Jeremy

 

When God Goes Quiet: Silent Seasons

Genesis 12.2-3; 16.1-4; 17.15-19

Tic-Tock Genesis 12.2-3

  • Abraham’s walk with God at 75, Sarah at 65
  • God’s promise to Abraham

TIME TIRES Genesis 16.1-4

  • God’s silence and suffering
  • Cognitive Chaos
  • Satan’s deception
  • Doubt in God’s promises
  • Awkward Anticipation
  • Sarah’s plan with Hagar

TIME TEASES

  • Abraham’s failure to offer Assured Acceptance
  • Call for men to be leaders, not passive

Time Tortures Genesis 17.15-19

  • God’s extreme promises
  • Abraham’s disbelief
  • Shifting perspective on impossible situations

TIME = TRUST Exodus 14; 1 Samuel 17

  • God’s operation beyond human understanding
  • Examples of God’s extraordinary actions
  • Parting of the Red Sea
  • David and Goliath

TIME = TESTIMONY

  • Trusting God in extreme circumstances
  • God as the orchestrator of our lives
  • Trials as opportunities for God’s glory

TIME TOGETHER Genesis 12.3

  • Seasons of silence as divine pauses
  • Interconnectedness of God’s blessings
  • Waiting as sacred space for preparation

Conclusion

  • Stewardship of divine seasons
  • Reflecting Christ’s glory during silent times

 

Small Group Guide: When God Goes Quiet

Opening Prayer:
Begin with a prayer, asking God to guide your discussion and help everyone apply the lessons from the sermon to their lives.

Key Takeaways:

  1. God’s promises may take time to fulfill, but His timing is perfect.
  2. Waiting periods can lead to “Cognitive Chaos” where we doubt God’s word.
  3. Our struggles and extreme circumstances are opportunities for God to demonstrate His power and faithfulness.
  4. Seasons of silence may be preparation for blessings that extend beyond just us.

Discussion Questions:

  1. The sermon mentions Abraham and Sarah’s journey of faith. How does their story resonate with your own experiences of waiting on God’s promises?
  2. What is “Cognitive Chaos,” and how have you experienced it in your own life? How can we combat these doubts?
  3. The pastor emphasizes the importance of men providing “Assured Acceptance” to their partners. How can we all offer this kind of support to one another in times of waiting?
  4. Discuss a time when God took you to an “extreme” situation. How did it ultimately reveal His character and glory?
  5. How does the concept of “TIME = TRUST” challenge or encourage you in your current circumstances?
  6. The sermon suggests that our waiting may be for the benefit of others. How does this perspective change the way you view difficult seasons in your life?

Practical Applications:

  1. This week, identify an area in your life where you’re waiting on God. Write down specific ways you can trust Him more deeply in this situation.
  2. Practice offering “Assured Acceptance” to someone in your life who is struggling with God’s timing. Share encouraging words or Scripture that remind them of God’s faithfulness.
  3. Reflect on past “extreme” situations in your life. Journal about how God revealed His character through these experiences and share your testimony with someone.
  4. Create a “Waiting Well” action plan. List specific activities or practices (e.g., prayer, Scripture meditation, serving others) that can help you remain faithful during silent seasons.

Scripture for Further Study:
Encourage group members to read these passages for additional reflection on the themes discussed.

  • Psalm 27.14
  • Isaiah 40.31
  • Romans 8.28
  • Hebrews 11.1-12

Closing Prayer:
End the session by thanking God for His perfect timing and asking for strength to trust Him in all circumstances.