Introduction

Every Christian at some point asks, “Where is God?” In times of suffering, loneliness, or spiritual dryness, it can feel as though God has abandoned us. Yet in the Orthodox tradition, this experience is not a sign of God’s absence, but of His mysterious way of leading us deeper into faith.

The Experience of God’s Silence

Even the saints experienced times when God seemed far away. The Scriptures are filled with cries like, “How long, O Lord? Will You forget me forever?” (Psalm 13:1). These moments of silence test our faith, teaching us to seek God not only in feelings and consolations but in steadfast trust.

Saint Silouan’s Struggle

Saint Silouan knew this struggle personally. For years he endured the torment of feeling abandoned by God, crying out in prayer without relief. In this darkness, he was tempted to despair. But in the depths of his trial, Christ appeared to him and gave him the words that shaped his life:

“Keep your mind in hell, and despair not.”

This teaching shows that even when God seems absent, He is still present—purifying the soul, humbling the heart, and drawing us into greater dependence on His mercy.

Why God Allows This

Orthodox teaching explains that God sometimes withdraws the sense of His presence for our spiritual growth.

• To teach humility, reminding us that grace is a gift, not our possession.

• To strengthen faith, showing us that belief is not based on emotions but on truth.

• To increase love, for in longing for Him, our hearts expand.

God’s seeming absence is never abandonment, but a hidden way of guiding us toward union with Him.

Responding to God’s Silence

How should we live when God feels distant?

• Remain faithful in prayer. Even when dry, keep calling on His name.

• Participate in the sacraments. Grace is given through the life of the Church.

• Read the lives of the saints. Their struggles encourage us in our own.

• Trust God’s timing. His silence is not rejection but preparation.

Conclusion

When God seems absent, He is often closer than we realize—working in hidden ways to heal and save us. Saint Silouan reminds us that the true Christian life is not free of struggle, but filled with hope that never fails.

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18