“So I remained utterly silent, not even saying anything good.” Psalm 39:2 NIV
David’s decision to hold his tongue was not the solution to his problem. Rather, it created additional problems. His total silence kept him from sharing the good things God had done for him. David was known for praising the Lord, and the muzzle over his mouth suppressed not only his pain, but also his praise. The longer David suffered in silence, the more agonizing his pain became. His sorrow or anguish was constantly on his mind, stirring within him like boiling water. He compared his distress to a fire raging inside him, and, the longer he meditated upon it, the hotter it burned. As the flames leapt higher and higher within his soul, he was finally forced to open his mouth and let his misery escape. When we are suffering – whether physically, spiritually, or emotionally, we face the temptation to speak rashly. We are prone to complaining, to questioning God and even blaming Him for our distress. Far too often, when we are hurting, we tend to lash out at others, including those who are trying to help us. Like David, we need to recognize when we dishonour God and wound others with our words. May we be encouraged to seek the Lord’s help to practise self-control and not speak words that we will later regret. This is especially true when we are suffering. Yet, as David grieved, he was determined not to speak foolishly. Paul also suffered trial after trial as he served the Lord. But he purposed in his heart to always speak in faith, not from a spirit of doubt or unbelief. May our Lord grant us the grace to follow in their footsteps.
PRAYER THOUGHT
Lord, help us to speak in faith in the midst of our trials.
PRAYER FOR TODAY
Lord, by Your Holy Spirit, help us to be purposed in our hearts to always speak in faith, not from a spirit of doubt or unbelief. AMEN
INTERNATIONAL BIBLE READING ASSOCIATION (IBRA)
Genesis 40
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