Facing Silence: New Book Explores Faith Amidst Suffering
WASHINGTON – A recent survey revealed that half of Americans believe God does not intervene in human suffering, attributing hardship to a “larger plan.” However, grappling with the reasons behind pain and loss remains a profound challenge for many, prompting a renewed look at age-old questions of faith and resilience.
Evangelist and author Autumn Miles addresses these questions in her new book, “Holy Ghosted: What Job’s Pain Teaches Us About Surviving Spiritual Silence,” offering a fresh perspective on the biblical story of Job and its relevance to modern struggles. Miles discussed her work on CBN’s “Faith in Culture” Podcast, providing insights into navigating periods of spiritual disconnect and finding meaning in the midst of adversity.
The book delves into the complexities of the Book of Job, a text often difficult to interpret due to its poetic structure and narrative framing. Miles argues that understanding Job’s experience isn’t about finding easy answers, but about recognizing God’s presence even – and especially – in silence.
“The world has coined this narrative on God,” Miles explained in the podcast. “God is mean because why would a good God allow bad things to happen to innocent good people? And the world uses that as a justification to leave God. And it works.”
Miles challenges this perception, suggesting that God’s silence isn’t necessarily absence, but a deliberate act intended to draw individuals closer to Him. “I believe that God wanted to gift Job with himself,” she said. “A greater version of himself that Job had not experienced yet.”
The conversation also highlighted the often-overlooked detail of Job’s standing in the divine realm. “Job was famous in heaven,” Miles noted. “God knew his name. Satan knew his name. And everyone that was in that throne room knew exactly who God was talking about when [the Lord] said, ‘Have you considered my servant, Job?’”
Miles emphasizes that God doesn’t always respond with a simple “yes,” “no,” or “wait,” but rather addresses the deeper longings of the soul. She also points out that God, according to the biblical narrative, allows suffering, establishing a precedent for navigating hardship. “God was setting a precedent. I do allow my people to suffer…you need to know this so that you can navigate these hard seasons that will come in your life.”
For those experiencing spiritual doubt or pain, Miles advocates for leaning into faith, rather than away from it. “A lot of people want to lean away from God in relief because this faith thing is just too hard and God is not answering,” she said. “But actually we need to lean into God for revelation.” She stresses the importance of remembering God’s unchanging character, even when circumstances are bleak.
Miles’ work offers a timely message for a world grappling with uncertainty and loss, encouraging individuals to seek community, scripture, and a deeper connection with the divine.
You can listen to the full conversation with Autumn Miles here:
And watch the full CBN interview here:
