Psalm 55:7 refers to the quiet of the wilderness. The wilderness image is an image of suffering. Those times when we feel dry and deserted, alone in a wasteland. In pain, we have the choice to distract ourselves to try to drown out the despair and sometimes, momentarily, that is what we need.
And yet, if we allow ourselves to live in that wilderness, we will find that quiet. It is a quieting of all the voices of the media and other people because in the midst of isolating pain, we pay little attention to anyone else.
The wild quietness allows us to hear God’s voice. We learn to value his voice in the lonely wildnerness. We recognize our weakness, our need for strength and comfort. We have the opportunity to be pressed hard into his strong arms.
Jesus, some of us are wandering and lonely today. Give us grace to listen carefully.