Title
The Combined Power of Obedience
Scripture
But they held their peace and answered him not a word; for the king’s commandment was, “Do not answer him.”
(Isaiah 36:21)
Devotional
The lesson of our text is at least two-fold: the wisdom of obedience and the prudence of silence. Seldom if ever does obedience fail to bear fruit, especially if you have agreed to be obedient. Obedience is simply doing what you have agreed to do. Therefore, disobedience is not keeping your word. The wisdom of silence is evident. The book of Proverbs says it this way, “Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; when he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive.” Therefore, if you will not be obedient, at least be silent. Why should you further condemn yourself? Learn the elementary level of obedience, which is keeping your word. Likewise, learn the power of silence. More than often, what we do not say has more authority than what we do say. When you combine truthful obedience with appropriate silence you will acquire godly success.
Text For The Day
Isaiah 36:21: But they held their peace and answered him not a word; for the king’s commandment was, “Do not answer him.”
Thought For The Day
“Peter T. Forsythe was right when he said, ‘The first duty of every soul is to find not its freedom but its Master.’” The Integrity Crisis, Warren W. Wiersbe Professor of Preaching at Grand Rapids Baptist Seminary.
Questions To Ponder
· Can we be obedient to God without being obedient to His designated authorities?
· Who are these designated authorities?
· Who are the designated authorities in your life?
Morning Study Guide
Defining: “Hold your peace,” not every thought of the mind and reflection of emotion is to flow from the lips.
Referencing: “Be submissive… that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by [your] conduct…”
1 Peter 3:1.
Applying: Subject yourself to the authorities God has placed in your life and do so silently (in spirit, soul, and body).