Devotions

Helen Keller was left deaf and blind by an incurable childhood illness. A patient and persistent teacher, Anne Sullivan, taught her to read through her senses of touch, smell, and taste.

At the close of her autobiography Helen Keller writes: Fate -- silent, pitiless -- bars the way. Fain would I question his imperious decree; for my heart is undisciplined and passionate, but my tongue will not utter the bitter, futile words that rise to my lips, and they back into my heart llike unshed tears. Silence sits immense upon my soul. Then comes hope with a smile and whispers, "There is joy in self-forgetfulness." So I try to make the light in others people's eyes my sun, the music in others' ears my symphony, the smile on others' lips my happiness.

Silence can be used to nurture pouting, anger, and hatred. Far better uses for silence are reflecting, meditating, and listening. It is only when we are truly silent before the Lord that we can hear His still small voice speaking to our souls.


Scripture: "Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the descerning get guidance."  Proverbs 1:5 NIV