Somewhere around 900BC or so, God is recorded as saying to the Israelites: “Be still, and know that I am God”.

It’s always fascinated me that a God who created the universe, whose power exceeds our wildest imagination, should choose to reveal himself not with loud shouts and incredible signs, but in a quiet whisper. Many times we are told to listen for his small voice in the stillness of life.

Have you ever got up real early before the rest of the world is awake? Before cars are driving on the road, before people are walking down the street? When was the last time you did it?

The other day I woke up early for some reason. It was getting light, but there didn’t seem to be another soul awake for miles around me. It was silent. And sitting there, looking out over the world, all I could hear was myself breathe. And the world looked very different. Away from all the chatter and noise of our 21st century lifestyle, my mind was cleared and turned to more important things in life. Eternal things.

If you haven’t done it for a while, I really recommend it. Get up early, or just go and find a quiet place somewhere. A really quiet place. And listen. If you’re bold, even ask God if he’s there. It will be worth it.