Friday, April 26, 2013

Isaiah 35-36: Do Not Answer Him

Rabshakeh, a military officer delivered a message on behalf of Sennacherib, king of Assyria, to King Hezekiah's representatives.  The message used intimidation tactics and attempted to undermine the people's faith in God.  Just about the whole chapter of Isaiah 36 describes the taunting of the enemy of God's people.  I like the end of the chapter.



Isaiah 36:20-21

Amplified Bible (AMP)
20 Who among all the gods of these lands has delivered his land out of my hand, that [you should think that] the Lord can deliver Jerusalem out of my hand?
21 But they kept still and answered him not a word, for the king’s [Hezekiah’s] command was, Do not answer him.
(emphasis mine)

The Bible is all of its historical glory reveals the way we need to respond in the present.  When the enemy of God (satan) attempts to discourage us with his taunting lies, when he does his best to squash our faith in God, how should we respond?

Could it be that God (our King) is counselling us to be still and keep our mouths closed?

I know my mouth has gotten me into hot water even though my motives were pure.  If I would have "kept still" and not answered the evil one then I could have heard God's directions for my next action and words.

Having a tendency for impulsive behavior makes being still and closing my mouth difficult depending on the circumstance.  I do believe with all of my heart that God does command us to respond to the evil one, but that response MUST be borne out of His edict, not my own thoughts of what to do or say. 

The next time the evil one attempts to manipulate your emotions by taunts and lies, keep still in body and in soul and keep your mouth closed.  In this way, you will be able to hear Abba's direction through the still small voice of His Spirit.

Holy Spirit, please empower us to remain still and keep our mouths closed.  We wait for Your directions on what to do and say.  When to do and say.  You are Wisdom.  Pour out Wisdom through us.  All for the glory of the One called Jesus and always in His name alone...AMEN!!!

1 comment:

shirley hunggim said...

thank you for sharing. God bless you :)