George Matheson emphasizes the profound relationship between hope and quiet waiting, illustrating that true hope is often measured by the calmness of our waiting. He contrasts the impulsive nature of hope with the serene state of waiting, suggesting that the strongest hope is found in a peaceful heart. Matheson argues that while excitement can weaken hope, a calm demeanor reflects a deep-seated confidence in God's promises. He encourages believers to embrace this 'sublimely happy marriage' of hope and waiting, as it reveals the strength of their faith. Ultimately, he portrays the quietness of waiting as a testament to the assurance of salvation.

James Smith preaches on the importance of being still before God, emphasizing the need to trust in His sovereignty, submit to His will, and wait patiently for His timing. He highlights the futility of complaining, resisting God's plans, and rebelling against His authority, urging believers to be silent and yield themselves to God's work in their lives. Smith reassures that God is actively working, overruling circumstances for good, and will eventually provide understanding and clarity in His perfect timing.

Charles E. Cowman preaches on the importance of inward stillness to truly know God. He shares a personal experience of being in a time of great anxiety and turmoil, where he learned to be still and trust in God's sovereignty, leading to a successful outcome. Cowman emphasizes that true passivity is not laziness but a living stillness rooted in trust, contrasting it with anxious tension. He highlights the transformative power of quietness and listening to God's voice, urging believers to rest in God's control and experience the fullness of His presence.

James Bourne preaches on the importance of walking with Christ as we first received Him, emphasizing the need to maintain a fervent spirit and constant communion with Jesus. He warns against losing our first love and becoming indifferent towards Christ and His teachings, urging believers to guard against spiritual decay and seek to keep their conscience blameless. Bourne encourages the congregation to hold fast to the truths of God, maintain a strong faith, and diligently use the means appointed by God for spiritual nourishment and growth.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of prayer beyond mere requests, arguing that true prayer is about entering into a deep union with God. He warns against the tendency to treat prayer as a means to 'get' what we want, suggesting that the highest form of prayer transcends requests and leads to profound spiritual experiences. Tozer highlights the necessity of silence in prayer, encouraging Christians to embrace stillness to hear the voice of God. He cites the psalmist's call to 'Be still and know' as a vital practice for spiritual growth and understanding. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a deeper, more contemplative approach to prayer that fosters a closer relationship with the Eternal God.

J.C. Philpot preaches about the importance of faith, hope, and love, highlighting the distinct roles and struggles each grace faces. Faith is described as the substance of things hoped for, with a focus on birth, nature, and opposition. Hope is portrayed as enduring patiently against despair and opposition, with a strong anchor-like quality. Love is depicted as laboring inwardly against enmity and outwardly in service to God and His people, emphasizing submission, obedience, and separation from the world. Philpot urges the congregation to examine their faith, hope, and love by their works, patience, and labor to ensure a genuine experience of these graces.

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.

George Fox preaches to the brethren, encouraging them to stand together in God's power and not be discouraged by external enemies. He emphasizes the importance of holding onto freedom in Christ, being armed with wisdom against worldly influences, and waiting in purity to comprehend God's wisdom. Fox urges believers to abide trials, stand firm in their freedom from worldly bondage, and wait for redemption. He also calls for unity among friends, exhorting them to speak words of eternal life, reprove evil, and meet together in the spirit to experience God's presence. The sermon concludes with blessings of God's love, guidance, and protection for the faithful who overcome the world through their faith.

F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of waiting and watching with God, drawing parallels between human relationships and our relationship with the Divine. He reflects on the struggles of faith, particularly in times of uncertainty and darkness, using Abraham's experience as a model for patience and trust in God's promises. Meyer encourages believers to remain steadfast in their hope, even when faced with the horror of great darkness, and to trust in God's timing and providence. He concludes by affirming that God's covenant with Abraham remains unbroken, assuring us of His faithfulness and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises.

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.