The Silent Season: Finding God in December’s Stillness

Do you feel it?

All around us the world is humming with activity — shopping lists and party plans, special gatherings, church services, and service opportunities — yet, December’s dreary days and cold, long nights beckon us to wrap up in a blanket of silence. For those of us who claim Christ, this season offers even more — a sacred invitation to step into the silence and discover God’s presence in the stillness.

One of my favorite Scriptures brings a reminder that God often speaks in whispers rather than shouts. In 1 Kings 19:12, we see Elijah, weary and discouraged, expecting God in the wind, earthquake, and fire. Yet the Lord reveals Himself in “a gentle whisper.” I love that. When I am tired or discouraged, I can just see my Father wrapping His arms around me, bending His head toward mine, and whispering words of comfort and love and restoration.

Practical ways you can find God in December’s stillness

So, what if we shift our perspective a smidge? What if we stop thinking of silence as emptiness and instead view it a space that allows us to hear God’s voice? I believe you will discover it is in these precious, quiet moments that you can catch your breath; you can hear God’s soft, gentle voice; and your soul can be renewed. Here are a few suggestions for claiming that moment of peace in this busy season.

Make time for God. Anytime works, but mornings are especially powerful. I know. Mornings are hard for so many reasons, but even five or ten minutes to connect with your Heavenly Father will help anchor your heart and give you encouragement to face … or take on … the day. Gratitude, praise, trust — it’s amazing how restorative these attitudes of the heart can be.

Stepping outside. I’m not an outdoorsy girl, but there’s something peaceful about being out in nature, even if it’s in your own backyard. Breathing in the crisp air, noticing the shapes of the bare tree branches, the muted browns, golds, and reds of the foliage, the gray sky — all beautiful reminders of God’s glory and artistry.

Journaling prayers. Although I’m a writer, a journal-ist even, journaling has never been my thing, until I started journaling my prayers. Almost every morning, I write a letter to my Father, thanking Him for the blessings of my life, sharing my worries, fears, and hopes. Somehow, in the silence, these scratchings of my pen become a dialogue with God that brings me comfort and courage to plow on.

Practicing Sabbath. Do you find that resting takes effort? Isn’t that strange? Why? Why is it so hard, and yet, it is so necessary. We must intentionally resist the pull of endless busyness. We must set aside time to rest, worship, fellowship, and just breathe. Psalm 46:10 whispers over us: “Be still, and know that I am God.” 

Stillness is not wasted time, it is holy time. I saw something once that gave me a nice way to reframe the idea of practicing Sabbath from a list of what I shouldn't do to a list of ideas for what I get to do. Maybe you'll find it helpful too: Sabbath is a day of rest and worship; a day to cease working and relax in God; a day to participate in activities that nurture peace, worship, relationship, celebration, and thankfulness. Doesn't that sound lovely ... and refreshing?

Encouragement for the Weary Heart

For many of us, December feels heavy with expectations — perfect meals, perfect gifts, perfect gatherings. Yet we know God does not ask for perfection. All He asks for is our presence. Remember, Jesus Himself withdrew to quiet places to pray (Luke 5:16). If the Son of God needed stillness, then how much more do we? In the silent season of December, we are reminded that God’s love is not earned by doing more, but received by resting in Him.

Food for thought

December is more than a month of festivities — it is a season of sacred stillness. In the quiet, God whispers peace to our weary souls. In the waiting, He renews our hope. In the silence, He prepares us for joy.

This month, I encourage you to carve out moments of stillness. Light a candle, open your Bible, breathe deeply, and listen. For in December’s silence, God is near.

Closing Prayer

Lord, in the stillness of December, quiet our hearts. Help us to hear Your gentle whisper above the noise of the season. Teach us to rest in Your presence, to wait with hope, and to rejoice in the gift of Your Son. Amen.

Now it’s your turn

Where do you most feel God’s presence?

How can you create quiet moments this December?

What might God be whispering to you in this season of waiting?