This sermon delves into the themes of affliction, abortion, and the importance of listening to God, Jesus, and nature. It reflects on the suffering experienced in communist countries like China and the need to endure afflictions with faith. The speaker emphasizes the significance of listening to God's voice amidst life's challenges and the eternal glory that awaits those who endure afflictions with grace.

Andrew Bonar emphasizes the significance of Christ's silence in his sermon, illustrating how it serves as a profound lesson in obedience and divine presence. He reflects on Christ's thirty years of silence in Nazareth, which teaches us to seek God's approval over human recognition, and highlights the silent miracle at the wedding in Cana, where Christ's presence alone brought transformation. Bonar encourages believers to recognize the power of God's quiet work in their lives, suggesting that true blessings often come in silence and solitude with the Lord. The sermon invites us to contemplate the depth of Christ's obedience and the quiet yet powerful ways God operates in our lives.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of taking time to listen to God amidst our fast-paced lives, illustrating this with a story about Samuel Taylor Coleridge and a Quaker woman who questioned his busyness. Tozer argues that our hurried existence often prevents us from truly contemplating and hearing God's voice. He reflects on the importance of solitude and silence for spiritual growth and understanding, urging believers to prioritize moments of stillness to connect with God. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the ability to slow down and embrace this vital practice.

J.R. Miller emphasizes the importance of knowing when to speak and when to remain silent, drawing from Ecclesiastes 3:7. He highlights that while speech can be powerful and beneficial, there are moments when silence is more appropriate and even necessary, especially in the presence of grief or injustice. Miller reflects on the example of Jesus, who often chose silence over words, teaching us that self-discipline and divine help are essential in mastering our speech. He warns against the dangers of hasty words that can cause irreparable harm and encourages believers to seek God's guidance in their communication. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a balance between speaking and silence, urging us to listen for God's voice before we speak.

St. Benedict of Nursia preaches on the ninth degree of humility, emphasizing the importance of monks restraining their tongues and practicing silence, only speaking when questioned. He references Proverbs 10:19 which warns against sinning through excessive speech, and Psalms 140:11 highlighting the instability of talkative individuals on earth.

A.B. Simpson emphasizes the profound impact of speech as a defining characteristic of humanity, asserting that the way we communicate reveals our true character. He warns that failing to control one's tongue indicates an unsanctified spirit, while mastering our words signifies spiritual maturity and alignment with the Holy Spirit. Simpson illustrates the consequences of careless speech through the example of Moses, whose unguarded words cost him the opportunity to enter the Promised Land. He concludes that our words have eternal significance, as they can justify or condemn us before God.

St. John Climacus emphasizes the dangers of judgment, the importance of deliberate silence, and the virtues of controlling one's tongue and embracing silence to draw near to God. He highlights how talkativeness leads to various vices and distractions, while deliberate silence fosters prayer, remembrance of death, and contemplation. St. John Climacus also points out that talkativeness often stems from vainglory or other passions, and those who love silence and spiritual mourning are able to overcome it.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the importance of being silent before the Lord and patiently waiting for Him, urging the soul to refrain from muttering, murmuring, and complaining during times of affliction. He commands the soul to find peace and stillness, recognizing that there is no justifiable reason to quarrel against God's righteous hand. Brooks encourages believers to lay their hand upon their mouth and embrace a quiet spirit, as inner turmoil can lead to accountability for our discontent.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of silence and listening to God before speaking on His behalf. He reflects on how true understanding and revelation come from a quiet heart, as exemplified by David's experience of musing in silence before speaking. Tozer suggests that many Christians would benefit from taking time to be still and listen for God's voice, which can lead to profound spiritual healing and insight. He warns that a busy mouth often hinders the heart from receiving divine truth. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the practice of silence to deepen our relationship with God.

F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of humility and silence in our relationship with God, reflecting on Job's acknowledgment of his smallness before the Almighty. He contrasts the pride of self-defense with the nobility found in recognizing our limitations and the need for God's presence. Meyer encourages believers to embrace stillness and meditation, suggesting that true peace is found in solitude with God rather than in the company of others. He highlights the value of listening to God rather than engaging in arguments or complaints, advocating for a life focused on divine communion.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of silence and a closed mouth in prayer, arguing that true communion with God transcends mere requests for personal gain. He reflects on Psalm 39:3, illustrating that a hot heart often arises from a quiet spirit, and that listening is essential before speaking. Tozer warns against the tendency of modern prayer to focus on what we can 'get' from God, urging believers to seek a deeper union with Him. He concludes with a personal prayer for the discipline of silence before God, recognizing its necessity for spiritual growth.

St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of silence, especially during the night hours, for monastics. He outlines a structured program for different seasons, whether fasting or having two meals, including communal reading of spiritual texts like the Conferences or Lives of the Fathers. St. Benedict advises against reading certain parts of Scripture late at night to protect weaker minds. He enforces strict silence after Compline, allowing exceptions only for necessary communication with guests or orders from the Abbess, to be done with seriousness and restraint.

J.R. Miller emphasizes the profound blessings of quietness, illustrating how it benefits both the individual and those around them. He highlights the biblical wisdom that encourages silence, noting that while speaking has its place, there are times when being quiet is far more valuable. Miller draws on scriptural examples, such as the life of Christ and the teachings of the apostles, to advocate for a quiet spirit and the importance of thoughtful speech. He warns against the dangers of careless words and gossip, urging believers to cultivate a spirit of peace and restraint in their interactions. Ultimately, he concludes that true strength lies in the ability to remain silent in the face of provocation and to find peace in God's presence.