Let’s face it. Silence can be awkward. I bet you’ve had your fair share of uncomfortable silences (as I have). Sometimes, I want nothing to do with it. What if I run out of things to say on a car ride with my co-worker? Are we just going to sit there in silence? There’s always the radio to turn to, I suppose.
Sometimes we can’t drown out the unbearable noise of silence. And perhaps that’s a good thing. Whether in conversation with other people or in the midst of prayer, a minute or two of comfortable silence can help us measure our words wisely and prepare us for fruitful and authentic dialogue.
This is true, specifically, when we seek intimacy with the Lord. The good news is that when it comes to speaking to God, we don’t have to worry about saying the right thing, or even the wrong one. Still, you might be feeling a bit hesitant to spend time in utter silence with him. Is that even considered prayer?
The tradition of silent prayer is rooted in Scripture and has been highlighted by saints and popes throughout the years. Pope Benedict XVI recognizes that the word of God can only be truly spoken and heard in silence (Verbum Domini, 66). Pope Francis refers to silence as “a prerequisite to that gaze of faith which enables us to welcome God’s presence into our own life, that of the brothers and sisters given us by the Lord, and the events of today’s world. Silence entails self-emptying in order to grow in receptivity (Vultum Dei quaerere, 33).”
Struggling to create space for silent prayer? Read Andre’s article for tips on finding silence in a world of digital distractions.
When we empty ourselves of the noise that surrounds us, silence becomes the prime setting for hearing God’s voice. It is an essential piece of our communication with God that lays the groundwork for grace receptivity. Still, you might be wondering how to have comfortable silence.
Here are a few tips to ease yourself into the practice of silent prayer:
1. Breathe the silence in.
Becoming comfortable with silence is an art. Before you begin your time of undivided attention to God, take a deep breath. Let it all in. Count the seconds between breaths, if you need to. Don’t forget to breathe out! Repeat this process as long as you need to. Enjoy the peace it brings. Let go of worries with each exhale. When you feel your heart has settled, rest and relax.
2. Hold the silence up.
Lift the silence up as if you were holding it in your hands. Stare at it. Wonder about it with curiosity. Listen attentively to whatever sounds you hear. Don’t worry about distractions. Embrace them. God might be trying to speak to you through them. Simply lift them up to God in the silence. Invite God to reveal himself to you. Ask: God, what are you trying to say to me here and now? What obstacles might be getting in the way of me hearing your voice?
3. Turn the silence around.
After you feel like enough time has passed, and you are satisfied with what you have received, turn the silence around. Ask God to help you find the right words to say to him. Invoke the Holy Spirit. Praise God. Tell him how much you love him and need him. Don’t be afraid to break the silence at this time and say out loud what’s troubling you, what you think you need. End by thanking God for this time and asking for more opportunities like this.
Cultivating silence is a necessary part of a life of discipleship. It smooths out the surface of our mind and allows for a deeper, heart-felt sense of the presence of God in our lives. Even though it can take some getting used to, it’s nothing to be afraid of. It’s the place where God speaks.
Adriana Rivera is an Associate Content Creator at the Evangelical Catholic. The Evangelical Catholic’s mission is to equip Catholics to live out the Great Commission. Learn more.
