Don’t Be Offended by God’s Silence – May 2025 Article

Title: Don’t Be Offended by God’s Silence

Bible Texts: Matthew 15:23; Jeremiah 29:11

Matthew 15:23

“Jesus did not answer a word. So his disciples came to him and urged him, ‘Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us.’” (NIV)

Jeremiah 29:11

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (NIV)

Introduction

Life’s journey is marked by exhilarating mountain peaks and sorrowful valley lows. It is not determined by chance or fate but by God’s sovereign hand. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11, NIV). This journey is meant to shape and align us with God’s eternal design.

However, we often encounter times of deep sorrow, need, or uncertainty; moments when heaven appears strangely silent. Our prayers seem unanswered. Our pain, unrelieved. In such moments, we may feel forsaken, forgotten, or abandoned by God. Yet, God’s silence does not mean His absence. It does not indicate a lack of care or rejection.

In truth, God’s silence is often a redemptive strategy; a thread in the tapestry of His saving work. Just as a master artist uses both light and shadow, God uses silence to deepen our faith, refine our character, and draw us nearer to Him. His silence is purposeful, just as a wise guide knows when to speak and when to let the journey speak for itself. Silence may not signal the end but a turning point in our spiritual growth. Even when we cannot hear Him, He still speaks.

When heaven seems quiet, let us reflect on what it might mean for believers, and how we should respond to God’s apparent stillness.

  1. God’s Silence Tests the Depth of Our Faith

Matthew 15:21–28 recounts the remarkable story of the Canaanite woman who pleaded with Jesus to heal her demon-possessed daughter. In verse 23, “Jesus did not answer a word.” His initial silence was not indifference but a test, an opportunity to expose and purify the woman’s faith.

She persisted, even in the face of silence. Her trust was rooted in the power and goodness of Christ, not in an immediate answer. Her persistence moved Jesus, who eventually responded, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.” (v. 28)

Likewise, God’s silence in our lives often serves to test the sincerity and depth of our faith. As 1 Peter 1:6–7 states, trials come “so that the proven genuineness of your faith, of greater worth than gold… may result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” Silence from heaven challenges us to believe in God’s character and promises, even when we cannot trace His hand.

  1. God’s Silence Prepares Us for Something Greater

The story of Lazarus in John 11 reveals how divine silence can precede divine glory. After Mary and Martha informed Jesus of Lazarus’s illness, He delayed His visit. For two agonizing days, Jesus remained silent, and Lazarus died.

To the sisters, this delay likely felt like abandonment. But Jesus explained, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” (John 11:4)

His silence preceded a miracle more astonishing than healing: resurrection. God’s silence often foreshadows something greater. His delays are not His denials.

As Isaiah 55:8–9 reminds us, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways… As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Often, God is working behind the scenes, changing circumstances, transforming hearts, and orchestrating events to reveal His glory.

  1. God’s Silence Invites Us Into Deeper Intimacy

Rather than prompting us to try harder, God’s silence may be His way of inviting us closer. In silence, we are drawn not only to seek His hand but to know His heart. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.”

In our loud, fast-paced world, silence can feel uncomfortable. Yet God often whispers His most profound truths in silence. Elijah discovered this on Mount Horeb; God was not in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a gentle whisper (1 Kings 19:12).

In silence, God builds a relationship based on His presence, not just His provision. The stillness becomes sacred; a space of connection, much like lovers who communicate without words.

After enduring silence and suffering, Job finally declared, “My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you.” (Job 42:5) God’s silence invites us to pause, reflect, and reorient ourselves to know Him in both waiting and fulfillment.

Conclusion

God’s silence always serves a purpose. Whether He is drawing us closer, testing our trust, or preparing us for something greater, His silence is never wasted. Like the Canaanite woman, we are called to persevere. Like Mary and Martha, we are called to trust, even when all seems lost. Like Elijah and Job, we are called to listen in the quiet.

Silence does not mean the story is over; it may be the whisper before the breakthrough, the breath before the miracle. As Lamentations 3:25–26 assures us: “The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.”

May your silent seasons draw you nearer to God, not further away.

Reflection

Have you ever felt hurt or forgotten by God’s silence?

Today, reflect on this truth: God is not ignoring you. He is shaping you. His silence is not His absence; it is often His most loving tool to deepen your trust and refine your soul.

Take time to pray, journal, or simply sit in silence, not asking for answers, but for an awareness of His presence.

And remember: Don’t be offended by God’s silence; be transformed by it.

Let Us Pray

Father, I know You are always there for me, and You will never leave me alone in my moments of loneliness. I am sorry for my ignorance in thinking that Your silence is due to my mistakes or sins. Please forgive me and have mercy on me.

My Lord and God, I need You every hour. Breathe Your presence into my situation. Let the Holy Spirit minister hope to me and grant me grace to persevere.

Amen.

– John Aderogba for ROPMI

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THINK LIKE A VICTOR – APRIL 2025 ARTICLE

Text: Romans 8:37

“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (NIV)

Introduction 

To think like a victor involves refusing to accept defeat or failure as the final outcome. It is a mindset that looks beyond problems and setbacks, recognizing that each challenge is an opportunity for growth and that triumph is always possible, no matter how difficult the situation appears.

This kind of thinking is especially powerful when we consider Jesus Christ’s ultimate victory on the cross at Calvary. His triumph over sin and death teaches us that, regardless of how dire the circumstances may seem, victory is achievable through faith, patience, and trust in God’s power.

For anyone facing personal, professional, or spiritual obstacles, thinking like a victor means acknowledging that such situations are opportunities to draw on God’s strength and guidance for ultimate triumph.

Point 1: Embrace Challenges as Opportunities 

One of the most crucial aspects of thinking like a victor is changing our perspective on problems. Life’s challenges are often seen as barriers, but the victorious mindset views them as stepping stones to growth and success.

 

James 1:2-4 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

This passage reminds us that challenges are not meant to break us, but to strengthen our faith and build our character. When facing trials, instead of giving in to despair, we should see them as opportunities for spiritual growth and deeper reliance on God. Just as Christ endured the ultimate struggle on the cross, our challenges can also lead to victory when we trust in God.

Point 2: Trust in God’s Plan and Timing 

Victory does not always come the way we expect or at the time we desire. To think like a victor, we must believe in God’s plan and timing for our lives.

Romans 8:28 declares, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Even when everything appears to be falling apart, God is working behind the scenes for our good. Many viewed Jesus’ crucifixion as a tragic defeat, but it was actually the moment of salvation’s triumph for all humanity.

Jesus’ willingness to trust God’s plan, even amid incredible pain, teaches us that true victory does not come from avoiding difficulty, but from trusting in God’s sovereignty in the midst of it. By aligning ourselves with God’s purpose and trusting in His timing, we adopt a victor’s mindset that empowers us to overcome life’s greatest challenges.

Point 3: Live in the Power of the Resurrection

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the foundation of our ultimate victory. After the darkness of the crucifixion, Jesus rose triumphant over sin and death, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him.

Romans 6:4 says, “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”

This powerful passage reveals the transformative power of the resurrection. Living with this resurrection power means embracing the new life we have in Christ—free from the bondage of sin and full of strength to face every challenge.

No matter the trials we encounter, we are “more than conquerors through Him who loved us” (Romans 8:37). When we live with a resurrection mindset, we walk in victory every day.

Conclusion

Embracing challenges, trusting in God’s purpose and timing, and living in the power of the resurrection all contribute to cultivating a victor’s mindset. It’s not about avoiding hardship or pretending problems don’t exist, but about recognizing that, in Christ, we can triumph over anything.

We, too, can live victoriously in every area of life if we rely on His power and trust His purpose, just as Jesus achieved ultimate victory on the cross.

Finally, it is essential to acknowledge Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, because He is the true source of both victory and life.

Reflections 

As you go through life, ask yourself:

– How do I react when I face challenges?

– Do I see them as opportunities for growth, or do I give up in defeat?

– Do I trust in God’s plan, even when things don’t go my way?

Reflecting on these questions will help you develop a victorious mindset. Remember, victory is not just a destination; it’s a way of thinking and living every day.

Let us embrace the victory Jesus won for us, knowing that with Him, we are always more than conquerors.

Let Us Pray

Lord Jesus, I thank You for the victory You won for me on the cross of Calvary. I embrace the victory of the cross as the banner over every challenge I face.

By the power of the resurrection, I become unstoppable in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

John Aderogba for ROPMI

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Be Courageous – SEPTEMBER 2024 Newsletter

Topic: Be Courageous 

Text: Daniel 6

INTRODUCTION

Courage is a virtue that is often misunderstood. It is commonly associated with acts of bravery in combat or the ability to confront physical danger. However, true courage, particularly within the Christian faith, lies in the steadfastness to trust in God’s promises and timing, even during periods of waiting for answers to prayer. This form of courage necessitates profound faith and a heart firmly grounded in the assurance of God’s unwavering love.

Throughout history, the Bible offers countless examples of individuals who displayed extraordinary courage in the face of adversity. One of the most notable figures is Daniel, whose unwavering faith serves as a timeless model of courage in the midst of uncertainty. Found in Daniel 6, his story of boldly continuing in prayer, even when his life was threatened by a royal decree, illustrates the kind of faith-fueled courage that all believers are called to embrace. His confidence in God’s deliverance was not only a testament to his personal conviction but also a profound example of what it means to remain steadfast when faced with life’s greatest challenges.

In this writing, we will explore what it means to be truly courageous as individuals on the journey of life, drawing upon the example of Daniel to understand the fundamental principles that strengthen and embolden us. Courage, in the biblical sense, is not merely the absence of fear, but the presence of faith—a deep trust in the unfailing promises of God.

1) Courage That Is Rooted in Faith 

The essence of courage lies in its deep foundation in faith. True courage, as demonstrated in the life of Daniel, does not arise from self-confidence or physical strength, but from an unshakable belief in God. Daniel’s courage was not based on his ability to avoid or manipulate danger, but on his trust in God’s sovereignty and faithfulness. Even when faced with a decree that threatened his life, Daniel’s faith was unwavering. The king’s law demanded that anyone praying to any god or man other than the king be thrown into the lions’ den, but Daniel remained steadfast in his practice of praying three times a day. His courage was fueled by his faith in God—not in the absence of danger, but in the knowledge that God could deliver him according to His divine will.

This profound relationship between faith and courage is illuminated by the words of Hebrews 11:1, which tells us that faith is “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Daniel exemplified this faith, trusting in God’s plan and protection even though the outcome was not visible. He believed not in what he could physically perceive, but in the unseen power and promise of God.

In our own lives, we too face situations that test our courage. When we are waiting for answers to our prayers—especially in moments of deep uncertainty and desperation—our courage must be anchored in our faith. Like Daniel, we are called to believe that God is with us, even when the path ahead seems unclear. We must trust that He hears our prayers and is at work, orchestrating all things for our good. This faith gives birth to a courage that transcends human understanding, empowering us to face the lions in our own lives with boldness and confidence.

Courage founded on faith also invites us to embrace patience. It reminds us that God’s timing is perfect, even when we do not immediately see the outcome we desire. Just as Daniel trusted in God’s protection without knowing how or when deliverance would come, we too are called to trust that God is working behind the scenes, aligning everything according to His perfect will. Our role is not to manipulate outcomes but to remain faithful, knowing that God’s plans are for our ultimate good, even when they differ from our own expectations.

Thus, true courage is not merely about facing challenges with boldness; it is about standing firm in faith, knowing that God is with us in every trial. Whether or not we can see the solution, courage compels us to hold onto the hope and assurance that God will provide, and that His ways are higher than ours. Through faith, we can boldly step forward, confident that we are held in the hands of a loving and all-powerful God.

2) Courage Requires Perseverance 

Courage is not merely a fleeting emotion or a momentary act of boldness; it is a continuous, deliberate choice to trust in God’s sovereignty, no matter the circumstances. True courage is demonstrated through a lifestyle of persistent faith, just as we see in the example of Daniel. He did not pray once and stop, nor did he allow external pressures or fears to weaken his resolve. Instead, Daniel remained steadfast, seeking God’s face in prayer day after day, even when faced with the threat of persecution and when God’s response seemed delayed. His unwavering commitment in the midst of uncertainty highlights that perseverance is a vital component of courage.

In the same way, we are called to walk in courage through persistence, especially when the answers we seek from God are not immediate. Galatians 6:9 reminds us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” This scripture speaks directly to the heart of endurance. The challenges of waiting can often lead to weariness. It is in these moments of delay, when doubt begins to creep in, that we might question whether God will truly come through. Yet, this is precisely where courage is most needed—not in moments of immediate triumph, but in the long journey of faith, trusting that God’s timing is perfect.

Courage keeps us pressing forward, despite the silence, despite the setbacks, because it is rooted in the unshakable truth that God is faithful. Every act of perseverance, every prayer spoken in faith, is an act of courage that aligns us with God’s perfect will. Though we may not see the full picture, we trust that in due time, our efforts and steadfastness will bear fruit. God’s promises are sure, and our courage enables us to wait upon Him with hope, knowing that our perseverance will be richly rewarded.

Let us be people of courage, not swayed by temporary difficulties or prolonged waiting, but strengthened by the knowledge that God honors those who trust Him fully. As we persist in doing good, even when it seems unnoticed or unrewarded, we stand confident that God’s promises will be fulfilled in their season, and we will indeed reap the harvest He has prepared for us.

3) True Courage Brings Peace 

True courage is a profound and transformative quality, one that does not merely face danger but does so with a heart rooted in peace. Consider the example of Daniel, who, when cast into the lions’ den, exhibited a courage that transcended mere bravery. He did not panic, nor did he plead for his life, despite the imminent threat before him. His courage was not fueled by his own strength, but by his unwavering faith in God. It was the product of a life devoted to perseverance and trust, built over time through prayer and obedience to God’s will.

Daniel’s calm in the midst of peril reveals a deeper truth: courage, when born out of faith, produces an unshakable peace. He understood that his life was secure, not because he knew the outcome, but because he trusted in the hands of the One who held his future. Whether God chose to save him from the lions or not, Daniel’s heart was at peace, knowing that he was in the sovereign care of God.

This same peace is promised to all believers who fully place their trust in God. Philippians 4:6-7 exhorts us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This passage reminds us that when we approach God in faith, surrendering our worries and anxieties to Him, He responds by giving us a peace that defies human reasoning. It is a peace that stands firm even in the face of trials because it is rooted in the character of a faithful God.

True courage, then, enables us to release our fears and anxieties. It empowers us to stand firm, not because we are unafraid, but because we have entrusted our lives, our hopes, and our future to God. This courage comes from a deep conviction that God’s purposes for us are good and that His will is perfect. As we embrace this trust, we are freed from the burden of worry, and we rest in the knowledge that God’s peace will guard our hearts and minds, no matter what we face.

In a world filled with uncertainty and challenges, we can draw strength from the example of Daniel. His courage is a reminder that true peace does not come from the absence of danger, but from the presence of faith. As we grow in our relationship with God and learn to lean on Him in every situation, our hearts can be fortified by the peace that only He provides—a peace that transcends understanding and equips us to face life’s lions with courage and calm. Let this be a source of inspiration and motivation: to live courageously is to live in peace, knowing that we are held secure by the One who is greater than all our fears.

Conclusion

Being courageous, especially when waiting for an answer to prayer, is not about mustering up strength or bravado. It is about placing our complete trust in God, persevering in that trust, and allowing His peace to guard our hearts. Like Daniel, we must be willing to stand firm in our faith, no matter the outcome, knowing that our courage honors God and draws us closer to Him.

As we wait on God’s timing, let us remember the words of Joshua 1:9: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” With this assurance, we can face any challenge with the courage that comes from knowing our God is faithful and He will never leave us nor forsake us.

Finally,  you need to give your life to Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior because this is the bedrock for you to be courageous.

LET’S PRAY:

Say your prayer like Daniel did—pour out your heart to God. Just as God came through for Daniel and defended him, so shall God answer your prayers. Amen.

John Aderogba for ROPMI

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