Silent but Not Still

We were gathered for our district Ministry Team Retreat at a Christian campground in the redwoods of northern California—a time when ministry couples could step away from their assignments for encouragement and renewal. It was just what my wife, Angie, and I needed - a setting where we could connect with others that understood the unique stresses and pressures of ministry … a place where we could regain perspective and vision. Our speaker was Earl Lee—a former pastor and missionary who had retired a few years earlier. He was a man of incredible wisdom and deep godly character. He made a statement I have never forgotten: “Just because God seems to be silent doesn’t mean that he is still. For he is always at work behind the scenes doing more than you can imagine.”

This is essentially the message Habakkuk relayed to the people when he said in v. 5, “I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told.” In other words, I’ve been active in the shadows. Even though it may not look like anything is going on, something of great significance is brewing. There’s some noteworthy and meaningful stuff that’s been happening under the table. I’ve been industrious and diligent, and you’ll see what I’ve been up to when the time is right.

Take hope, my friend. Just because God seems to be silent, doesn’t mean that he is still. His apparent silence or perceived inactivity is not an indication that he is disconnected or detached.