Revelation 8:1 In the previous six seal openings, there was immediate action and noise. In the seventh seal, there was a period of silence after the book was opened and before the trumpets sounded.
John was discouraged because there wasn’t anyone to open the sealed book. A voice from heaven encourages him by explaining there is a man (Christ) that can open the book.
Seven is a symbol of being complete. On the seventh day of creation, God rested and reigned. The walls of Jericho fell after a series of seven days. Momentous things happen on day seven.
Revelation 6:12 This is an immediate revealing and a spiritual shaking.
A silent heaven
When there’s a silence, can I hear the voice of God? Or is there a silence in my spiritual life?
Silence focuses us on the next thing. It may create uneasiness or anxiety or anticipation.
There is differing opinions on what “the space of half hour” signifies. It could be a spiritual "code" for time measurement, a literal description of the time John waited in his vision, or it could represent a period of apostasy where the people don't listen to God. Regardless of the reason, heaven isn’t speaking. This means there is no learning from heaven.
A silent heart
I need to hear God’s voice in critical and momentous times. Will God ever speak to me?
John doesn’t give up just because there is silence. He stays present even though he doesn’t know how long it will last. Silence can bring unbelief and doubt. Is this silence better than the “noise” of preaching and perceived voice God?
Before the trumpet sounded, there is prayer. If I can’t hear God’s voice, I need prayer.
When Christ was on the cross, He experienced a silent heaven.
1 Samuel 3:1 Eli allowed his sons to extort from the people. During this time, the word of the Lord was scarce. When heaven is quiet the earth is left to its own devices. In the end, the ark of the covenant was stolen. This silence was a result of a disobedience.
Genesis 4:6,7 If I am careless and have something to hide, sin is near and waiting to enter. A silent heart doesn’t hear from heaven.
A silent heart also can happen in times of discouragement. In these moments, pause and listen.
A silent family
A silent heart can lead to a silent family. A silent family doesn’t hear the voice of God because they do not spend devotion and worship time together. The family, in turn, doesn't share the gospel to others.
A silent community
Revelation 4:8 In the case of silent individuals and families, it’s hard for a community to not fall silent.
Although this silence may expand into a community, heaven itself is not silent. The Bible describes continuous and noisy worship. Just because John heard silence doesn't mean the natural order of heaven stopped.
Busyness and opinions “noise-cancels” the voice of God. Am I "canceling" out the right thing?
