When God is silent to us

But he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us.
(Matthew 15:23)

Introduction:
When our Lord began his ministry, they wondered at the gracious words that proceeded out of his mouth. (Luke 4:22) The centurion's faith in the power of Christ through his word was commended (Matthew 8:8) and the Lord's people are known by them hearing his voice (John 10:27)
Do we hear his voice? Would we know if he was silent? How do we react to a silent God?

1/ How God speaks to his people today
• By his Son (Hebrews 1:1-2)
• Through his word (Luke 16:31)
• Through the ministry of the word (Romans 10:8)
• The Holy Spirit bringing to remembrance (John 14:26)
• Through providence (Exodus 4:8) (1 Kings 22:48-49)
• Though people (2 Samuel 24:3)
• Through meditation of himself (Psalm 104:4)

2/ How do we react when God is silent?
• King Saul – (1 Samuel 28:6) Look somewhere else
• King David – (Psalm 28:1) Pray
• Jeremiah – (Jeremiah 42:7) Wait
• The woman of Canaan – (Matthew 15:23) keep pressing her case

3/ The experience of our Lord
• Silent before Pilate – (Matthew 27:11-14)
• Father silent to him – (Psalm 22:1-2) (Matthew 27:46)