CELEBRATING JUNE 2018 30 Yeaɾs

Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. Psalm 46:10

HEARING GOD IN THE SILENCE

A devotional from TODAY WITH GREG THORNTON Interim President of Moody Global Ministries

Listening for God in a Noisy World If you’ve ever concentrate on the words we will say vacationed at a to God in prayer, and we can also come remote location far before God in silence. As the psalmist from city lights and describes, “My soul, wait in silence for traffic sounds, you God only. For my hope is from Him (Ps. may have been struck 62:5, ‘’“”). by the silence. By being silent, we can more clearly Staring up at the vast sky, seeing the listen for God’s voice. I think of young brilliance of the stars and moon shining Samuel, startled in the night when above, you sense the beauty of God’s he heard God’s voice call his name. creation. In the silence, you hear the Unnerved, the young boy sought advice wind whistling through the trees or from the priest Eli. What should he do the waves lapping at the shore. And when he heard God call again? sometimes, if it is very still, you can even hear the sound of your own heart. “Eli told Samuel, ‘Go lie down, and if he calls you, say, ‘Speak, L™š›, for your In our modern age, silence is rare. Even servant is listening.’ So Samuel went now, in my Chicago office, I can hear and lay down in his place” (1 Sam. 3:9). the traffic below with cabs honking and As Samuel lay there in the silence, he the occasional scream of sirens. But did hear God speak again. This time when I do have the opportunity to get Samuel was ready: “Speak, for your away and experience quiet, it is easy to servant is listening” (v. 10). feel close to my Creator. “Be still, and know that I am God” (Ps. 46:10). We can be tempted to fill our Christian journey with words and noise, and Did you know that the word noise is there’s a time when we should speak derived from the Latin word nausea? and praise and make a joyful noise. Apparently, it related to the moaning But we must also carve out time to be sounds seasick passengers would still and listen for God’s voice. As we make while traveling long distances spend time in the Word this month, we on ancient vessels. But even though can devote some moments to silence. modern life forces us to accommodate Allow God to speak to your heart and noise, we need a place in our Christian be prepared to hear the message He walk to be silent. Sometimes we has for you! n

£800¥ 356¦6639 THEOLOGY MATTERS by Dr. John Koessler

God’s Silent Witness ne of the first things we learn made (Rom. 1:19). Yet the witness of about God in the book of creation is not enough. God’s testimony O Genesis is that He is not silent. of Himself cannot be avoided, but it can According to Genesis 1, God spoke be ignored. and creation came into existence. God also speaks through what He has As a result of our fallen nature, created. The heavens “declare” God’s humanity’s default response to the glory and the skies “proclaim” the work testimony of creation is to stifle its of His hands (Ps. 19:1). The beauty of message. We are inclined to suppress the heavens recounts God’s glory by and distort what creation teaches us putting His handiwork on display. about God (Rom. 1:18, 22–23). This means that creation can be a kind of This witness has two important features. primer but it can never serve as the First, it is conspicuous. The Hebrew final text about God. word translated as proclaim in Psalm 19:1 means to reveal something or Fortunately, God has also given us make it plain. The second feature of another, clearer testimony about this divine witness is that it is universal. Himself. The psalmist describes this God’s self-testimony continues day explicit witness in Psalm 19:7–9: the after day and night after night, even testimony of God’s written word. God’s though no audible voice is heard. “They law, statutes, precepts, commands, and have no speech, they use no words; no decrees will not change our thinking sound is heard from them,” the psalmist automatically—to truly understand God, says. “Yet their voice goes out into all we must also know Jesus Christ, who the earth, their words to the ends of the is God’s final word about Himself (Heb. world” (Ps. 19:3–4). The fact that God’s 1:1–3; John 1:1–4). He opens our eyes self-testimony is expressed nonverbally and changes our hearts by His Spirit. n through what He has made means that language is no barrier to its message. It is readily accessible to everyone. FOR FURTHER STUDY

To learn more, read General Because of this, all people are without Revelation: Historical Views and excuse when it comes to God. What Contemporary Issues by Bruce can be known about God has been Demarest (Zondervan). made plain through what has been

TODAYINTHEWORD.COM FROM THE EDITORS by Jamie Janosz

Take Moody Radio with You! Alexa, play Moody Radio! With today’s CD/MP3 (Moody Audio) technology, it is easier than ever before Experience Moody Radio’s archive of to listen to Moody Radio. In fact, more compelling content including current than one million listeners in as many programs like In the Market with Janet as 195 countries listen to Moody Radio Parshall, Equipped with Chris Brooks, on a regular basis. Here are a few Chris Fabry Live, and Moody Presents, convenient ways you can listen: as well as programs now off the air such as Radio School of the Bible. Mobile All of these can be purchased on a Now you can take Moody Radio with CD or as a digital MP3 download from you wherever you go by downloading MoodyAudio.com. the Moody Radio app to your iPhone, iPad, or Android device. Online (Player) The Moody Radio player provides a Listen to your local Moody Radio convenient way to listen to Moody station for the latest news, weather, Radio on any computer, smartphone, and programming. You can also listen tablet, and more! You can listen live live or on-demand to the Moody Radio or on-demand to the Moody Radio programs you don’t want to miss, such programs you don’t want to miss as In the Market with Janet Parshall, without downloading or syncing. Equipped with Chris Brooks, Chris Fabry Live, and Moody Presents iTunes and Podcasts without downloading or syncing. You can even subscribe to your favorite Moody Radio programs so you can You can find a full list of Moody Radio keep up on every new episode we stations, and also view a weekly release. You can do this with iTunes program schedule to see when your on your computer or the Podcasts favorite program will air on any Moody app on your iPhone. You can also use Radio station around the country. the podcast feeds of your favorite Moody Radio programs in your favorite Looking for an uplifting soundtrack or podcasting app to keep up! message? Try streaming any of Moody Radio’s internet stations, including The For more details and information on Praise & Worship Channel, Majesty how to listen and how to download Radio, Urban Praise, and Proclaim. links, visit moodyradio.org. n

‹800‘ 356“6639 VOLUME 31 • ISSUE 

MANAGING EDITOR Heather Moštt SENIOR EDITOR Elena Mafter CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Jamie Janosz Hearing God in the Silence John Koessler WRITER Brad Baurain Paul Simon’s song “Hurricane Eye” from his 2000 ART DIRECTOR album You’re the One combines metaphors, Lynn Gabalec contemplation of life’s mysteries, and even some GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Larry Bohlin, Rachel Hutcheson practical advice. One piece of advice is offered to an MARKETING & PRODUCTION aspiring writer: “You want to be a writer / but you don’t Paul B. Currie know how or when / Find a quiet place / use a humble MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES pen.” This is also good advice for our Bible study with INTERIM PRESIDENT Today in the Word this month. Greg Thornton INTERIM PROVOST John Jelinek Let us quieten both the outside noise and our inner INTERIM CHIEF OPERATING monologue, and with a humble spirit and inner silence OFFICER Mark Wagner let’s learn about silence in Scripture and how to hear CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER God. As we read from different books of the Bible, Ken Heulitt we’ll look at human and divine silence, the silence of CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER Samuel Choy waiting and of self-control, of grief and empathy, fear and faith. We’ll consider the importance of persevering VICE PRESIDENTS Tim Arens in prayer until the end, “till [the Lord] establishes Larry Davidhizar Jerusalem and makes her the praise of the earth” Jim Elliott Bruce Everhart (Isa. 62:7). And most important, we’ll learn about Collin G. Lambert hearing God even when He is silent. Frank W. Leber Jr. Bryan O’Neal Paul Santhouse James Spencer We pray this month’s study will help you hear the “still, Janet Stiven small voice” of the Lord in the hurricane that our lives Anthony Turner Debbie Zelinski often resemble. May we have ears to hear our God who is worthy of our undivided love and faithfulness. TRUSTEES Christopher Denison Thank you for studying with us and for your support Orbelina Eguizabal of this ministry! n T. Randall Fairfax (Chairman) Thomas S. Fortson Manuel Gutierrez Jerry B. Jenkins Paul Johnson (Emeritus) James Meeks David Schipper Julianna Slattery Moody Global Ministries is the sole publisher of Today in the Word, copyright Mark Wagner © 2018 by Moody Global Ministries. All rights reserved. Please direct all Today Richard E. Warren in the Word inquiries to Donor Resource Management, 820 N. LaSalle Blvd., Chicago, IL 60610. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, Richard Yook NIV®, copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Scripture taken from the New American Standard Bible®, copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. Printed in the U.S.A. Today in the Word is published monthly. Printed on 30% recycled paper.

TODAYINTHEWORD.COM READ ECCLESIASTES 3:18

FRIDAY JUNE A time to be silent and a time to speak. 1 Ecclesiastes 3:7

Introduction: A Time for Silence One Square Inch of Silence is a research highlighting the totality of something project in Olympia National Park in by indicating its two extremes and Washington State. It’s a small red stone everything in between.” To say there is on top of a moss-covered log three miles “a time to be silent and a time to speak” down a hiking trail, at a spot identified as captures the complexity of life and “the quietest place in the United States.” the necessity of wisdom. Sometimes The purpose is to highlight differences the right thing to do is to speak, but between human noise and natural sometimes the right thing to do is sounds, including the effects of noise the opposite—to be silent. Wisdom and silence on the environment. is knowing which is which, the right thing at the right place at the right time. Silence is hard to come by in the modern Wisdom comes from God, the One who world. We’re relentlessly surrounded sees the big picture and the One who by cell-phones, piped-in music, engine has ordained all seasons (Prov. 9:10). noises, and multimedia clamoring. Yet as Ecclesiastes 3 reminds us, “There is Our topic this month is silence, both a time for everything, and a season for its positive and negative aspects. We’ll every activity under the heavens,” which explore this biblical theme in ways that certainly includes “a time to be silent” contribute to our spiritual growth and (vv. 1, 7). knowledge of God. In a world awash in words and noise and a culture that The Moody Bible Commentary often sees silence as unproductive notes that the items on the list in this or troubling, we’ll see what Scripture passage are merisms, “a literary device teaches about human and divine silence.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US As you begin this study, pray for God’s blessing, William Bielawski and Erik especially the blessing of learning what He would Hultquist oversee the operation have you learn. Sometimes we’ve already made of Moody’s Facilities Maintenance department that takes care of up our minds and only look to Scripture to confirm our campus on a daily basis. what we already think we know. But through His They ask for your prayers for the Word God might want to teach us something new team and for their service to the or surprising this month. Are we ready? Moody community.

6 TODAY IN THE WORD READ HABAKKUK 2:1820

SATURDAY The LORD is in his holy temple; JUNE let all the earth be silent before him. Habakkuk 2:20 2

Human Silence: Let All the Earth Be Silent According to Ross W. Muir in Canadian response. As one translation renders Mennonite: “Silence was a part of it, “The whole earth is speechless in biblical worship and was held in high his presence!” esteem by the early church. . . . Silence needs desperately to be recovered If words are needed, God will speak in our worship services if the words them! When “the L•–— is in his holy that are spoken and sung are to have temple,” a time of judgment has arrived any depth or ring of truth to them, in (Ps. 11:4–7; cf. Zech. 2:13). Justice will the same way that lament needs to be be done; righteousness will have recovered in order to make our praises the victory. Zephaniah, too, invited more honest and less hollow.” his listeners: “Be silent before the Sovereign L•–—, for the day of the Today’s verse and especially the L•–— is near” (Zeph. 1:7). To recover phrase “Let all the earth be silent silence in worship, then, is to focus before him” is often used in calls to on the Lord’s justice, righteousness, worship (v. 20). But what exactly does judgment, and sovereignty. We are to it mean? Here the silence that is called bear witness, hope in, submit to, and for indicates finality. God’s presence worship these attributes and actions is the absolute reality, the bottom line of God. of everything that exists—as opposed to the fakeness and unreality of idols “Turn your eyes upon Jesus,” the (vv. 18–19). Given the fact that “the hymn says. “Look full in His wonderful L•–— is in his holy temple,” nothing face. And the things of earth will grow else needs to be said. Silence is the strangely dim in the light of His glory best, most reverent, most worshipful and grace.”

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US One day, Habakkuk 2:14 tells us, “the earth will be As we continue to pray for the filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lƒ„ .” Facilities team, please add That day is the Second Coming of our Lord and to your list Nathan Detwiler and Ryan Yoder in Exterior Savior, Jesus Christ. Until then, we watch, worship, Maintenance. Ask for God’s grace and pray, “Maranatha, come, Lord Jesus.” Let that and protection as they work on be the prayer of our hearts today, as we wait in landscaping in all seasons and godly silence before His awesome presence. every weather in Chicago.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 7 READ LEVITICUS 10:17

SUNDAY This is what the LORD spoke . . . JUNE “In the sight of all the people I will be honored.” Aaron remained silent. 3 Leviticus 10:3

Human Silence: Aaron and the Silence of Guilt Computer scientists recently used new priests—especially not priests!—could techniques to read a 1,500-year-old text get away with disregarding God’s known as the Ein Gedi scroll. Because it instructions and dishonoring His name had been badly burned, archaeologists (v. 3). had been afraid to open it lest it crumble into dust. So researchers at the Aaron’s silence in this episode was University of Kentucky used X-ray scan an acknowledgment of guilt. His data and special software to digitally sons’ motives are unknown to us— “unwind” the scroll—and read the first drunkenness may have been involved verse of Leviticus, “The Lord called to (see the warning in v. 9)—but no reason Moses and spoke to him.” or rationalization could justify their disobedience. For Aaron to keep his The book of Leviticus sets forth God’s mouth shut was the only appropriate Law, His instructions to the nation response to Moses’ rebuke. of Israel. The main purpose of these instructions was to ensure that God’s Furthermore, by staying on duty at people could be in a relationship with their priestly posts while the bodies Him and that God was shown proper were disposed of, Aaron and his respect. The consequences of failing to remaining sons demonstrated that do so were serious and often deadly. God took precedence over mourning That’s what happened in today’s for family (vv. 4–7). This might seem reading (vv. 1–2). Aaron’s sons Nadab harsh, but it was necessary and proper and Abihu offered “unauthorized fire” to show the Israelites the absolute at the altar of the Lord. Immediately the importance of obeying God and fire of God consumed them. Not even worshiping Him rightly.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US When we count the cost of discipleship, following Again, our prayers go to God for Christ is more important than family responsibilities the staff of Facilities Maintenance: and relationships. Skipping church during sports Carl Bjerga, John Addison, Joshua Burkhardt, and Matthew season to attend the kids’ games, lying to cover-up Morris. May God bless their a relative’s wrongdoing, or taking lavish vacations work of repair, replacement, and while refusing to give financially to support the preventative maintenance of Lord’s work all turn family into idolatry (Luke 14:26). MBI’s equipment and facilities.

8 TODAY IN THE WORD READ 1 KINGS 18:2039

MONDAY How long will you waver between two opinions? JUNE If the LORD is God, follow him. 1 Kings 18:21 4

Human Silence: Israel and the Silence of Unbelief In Walker Percy’s novel The Second “hesitate” or “limp” or even “dance” Coming, a depressed character named (v. 26). The idea is that the people were Will Barrett decides to put God’s hobbling between two irreconcilable existence to the test. Is He really there beliefs. No matter how fancy their or not? Will enters a cave and resolves dancing, they could not choose both not to come out unless God gives God and an idol. him a sign. If not, he will die. Rather humorously, during this experiment Will Nonetheless, the Israelites said nothing gets a toothache, can’t stand the pain, (v. 21). They refused to choose, though and escapes from the cave. Was that they agreed to the challenge (v. 24). God’s answer? They stood by silently during the hours of frenzied pagan rituals carried out In today’s reading, the Israelites also by the priests of Baal. Baal, of course, put God to the test. Their silence kept silent as well. Even as he taunted during the confrontation on Mount the idol’s priests, Elijah’s heart must Carmel was the silence of doubt or have been breaking over his people’s unbelief. When Elijah asked the people, continued silence. As he rebuilt the “How long will you waver between two altar and prayed, they still had nothing opinions? If the LŠ‹Œ is God, follow to say (v. 37). him; but if Baal is God, follow him,” this was their chance to declare their faith Only after the fire of the Lord in their covenant-keeping God. Elijah conclusively ended the challenge did was in fact sarcastically urging them the Israelites finally make their choice: to do so, because the Hebrew verb “The LŠ‹Œ—he is God! The LŠ‹Œ—he translated as “waver” can also mean is God!” (v. 39).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The prayers of the priests of Baal were frantic and In conclusion of our prayer time long-winded; Elijah’s was simple and heartfelt. for the Facilities Maintenance Jesus instructed us, “When you pray, do not keep team, would you uphold in prayer Paul Heggeland, Thomas on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be Addison, and Vincent Camera? heard because of their many words. Do not be like We appreciate their dedicated them, for your Father knows what you need before service as they make sure our you ask him” (Matt. 6:7–8). campus looks neat and attractive.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 9 READ JOB 40:17

TUESDAY JUNE I am unworthy—how can I reply to you? I put my hand over my mouth. 5 Job 40:4

Human Silence: Job and the Silence of Humility When Isaiah received the call to be a through a series of rhetorical questions, prophet, He saw a vision of the Lord that His ways are higher. and responded, “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live Job made the only appropriate among a people of unclean lips, and response—silence: “I put my hand my eyes have seen the King, the LORD over my mouth” (vv. 3–5). As with Almighty.” God graciously sent an angel Isaiah, Job’s vision of God also led to with a cleansing coal to touch Isaiah’s a more accurate perception of himself lips and consecrate them to ministry. in relation to God. Whereas before Then and only then was he ready and Job had known in his head that no able to respond, “Here am I. Send me!” one could win a debate with God (Job (Isa. 6:1–8). 9:2–3), now he finally understood in his heart his utter unworthiness to argue Job had a similar response to his vision with God or call Him to account. The of God. Prior to that experience, he entire idea was presumptuous and had been vociferous in complaining, ridiculous! God’s governance of the lamenting, arguing with his so-called universe is perfect. Whereas before he friends, and calling for justice from the had been eager to press his case, now Lord. While he acknowledged God as Job declared, “I will say no more” (v. 5). sovereign, he had been demanding that God hear his case and explain the Choosing silence was for Job an act of unjust suffering he had been enduring humility and wisdom. When he finally (Job 31:35–37). When God appeared in did speak again, they were words of chapter 38, it was not to answer Job’s repentance (Job 42:1–6). “summons” but to forcefully remind Job,

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Today let’s examine our prayer attitudes. We can Greg Thornton, senior VP of say anything to God, but do we say it in faith Media, asks for your prayers on and humility? Do we truly listen and look for His behalf of Moody’s leadership team. May they be guided by answers? Or is prayer like reading a grocery list God’s will for Moody and may they of things we want Him to do? To approach God’s follow the heart of God for His throne of grace is a tremendous privilege (Heb. people in charting the course of 4:16). Come humbly into His presence today! Moody Global Ministries.

10 TODAY IN THE WORD READ PSALM 131

WEDNESDAY I have calmed and quieted myself, JUNE I am like a weaned child with its mother. Psalm 131:2 6

Human Silence: A Quiet Child in a Parent’s Arms Ruth Haley Barton wrote in Invitation Why specifically a “weaned child”? to Solitude and Silence: Experiencing Because the relationship is not God’s Transforming Presence: “I based on need fulfillment, as with an believe silence is the most challenging, infant. The peace and satisfaction the most needed and the least flow from presence and intimacy—a experienced spiritual discipline among child snuggling close for the sake of evangelical Christians today. It is much closeness and the relationship itself. easier to talk about it and read about it No wonder this is a “song of ascents,” than to actually become quiet. . . . We that is, a psalm composed to be sung are starved for intimacy, to see and feel during the pilgrimage to Jerusalem and know God in the very cells of our and designed to prepare the heart being. We are starved for rest, to know for worship. God beyond what we can do for him.” How did the psalmist make this choice? Our psalm for today speaks to this By seeking humility and letting God need and desire. The silence at its core be God (v. 1). It is the nature of human is, as seen in the simile of the “weaned pride to think we can master our own child with its mother,” the silence of destinies, build a tower to heaven, and peacefulness, rest, and complete discover all the secrets of the universe. trust (v. 2). Interestingly, David here We don’t like limits. But as we read has “calmed and quieted” himself, yesterday, God alone governs creation. indicating a conscious, self-disciplined We must trust God to be God and put choice. But it is the Parent who is the our hope in Him from now to eternity foundation for his faith and thus the (v. 3). actual source of his contentment.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US No doubt the psalmist had questions to express Moody’s undergraduate students to God. But in this psalm, he simply rested in Him, are on summer break now. Today enjoying His presence. We need that as well. Don’t we’d like to invite you to uphold them in prayer—wherever they go to Him today in a spirit of What have you done are—for a good rest, spiritual for me lately?, but in the peaceful, faith-filled spirit refreshment, and growth in of “a weaned child with its mother.” Enjoy the commitment to God and His Word. richness and rest of your relationship with the Lord.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 11 READ PSALM 35:1728

THURSDAY JUNE LORD, you have seen this; do not be silent. Do not be far from me, Lord. 7 Psalm 35:22

Divine Silence? A Prayer for God Not to Be Silent Moody professor John Koessler wrote In Psalm 35, David was in a difficult about the silence of God in a recent situation. His enemies were ravaging blog post. We tend to interpret the lions and he was their helpless victim silence as “proof of His absence,” “a (vv. 17, 19–21). He was praying for God sign of disinterest” or “disengagement.” to come to the rescue (vv. 23–26). “We worry that it means that God can’t hear us or even worse that He won’t The lynchpin is verse 22: “Do not be hear us.” But we’re mistaken. “Silence silent. Do not be far from me, Lord.” often acts as God’s exclamation point, To David, silence meant absence forcing us to focus on the situation or passivity. From his perspective, it at hand. Instead of speaking to us in appeared that God was not interested words, God communicates through in seeing justice done or defending his our circumstances.” struggling worshiper. Thus, his primary prayer was a simple cry for God to show These are the dynamics underlying up and speak. today’s reading. Now that we’ve considered some of the meanings of Without God’s help, David’s praises human silence in Scripture, the next would be silenced. Notice his step of section of this month’s study explores faith by giving praise to the Lord (vv. 18, divine silence, and especially how 27–28) while simultaneously praying for we feel and respond when it seems Him not to be silent. Believing that God that God is not listening or answering. would respond, he chose not to remain Theologically, we know He is never silent but gave God the glory while the absent, always listens, and always cares. answer to his prayer was still pending. But it doesn’t always feel that way!

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US David’s situation is not unusual for followers of Dr. Larry Davidhizar, VP and Christ. Opposition might be a sign that we’re dean of the faculty, requests obeying Him. As Jesus warned His disciples: “If your prayers for the ministry of Moody’s undergraduate school. the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me Please pray that Moody education first. . . . Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is continue to have the Word of God not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, as its foundation and the Holy they will persecute you also” (John 15:18–21). Spirit its guide.

12 TODAY IN THE WORD READ PSALM 28

FRIDAY For if you remain silent, I will be JUNE like those who go down to the pit. Psalm 28:1 8

Divine Silence? Our Feeling of Despair Rodrigues, a seventeenth-century mercy and rescue him, as well as repay missionary in Japan in the novel the hypocritical evildoers what they Silence by Shusaku Endo, wrestled deserved (vv. 2–4). The main reason with the silence of God. Where was they have earned His punishment is God, he wondered, when His church their disregard for the Lord (v. 5). was suffering? Where was He when powerful and godless authorities The psalm then turns from despair exploited the poor and insulted His to joy (vv. 6–9). This shift in David’s name? Where was He when new emotional journey is raw, heartfelt, converts and young believers were anguished—and full of faith. The psalms tortured and martyred for their faith? are emotionally honest, but they never wallow in self-centeredness. Despite his Despair is a natural feeling in response feelings, David still knows God to be his to the silence of God. As in Psalm 35 strength, shield, and shepherd. Though yesterday, Psalm 28 cries out to God He seems silent now, He is a God who not to be silent (v. 1). If the Rock turns a hears, speaks, saves, and blesses, and deaf ear, David feels he might as well He will be true to His character. be “like those who go down to the pit” (which is death)—or as it has been Anticipating this, the psalmist trusts translated elsewhere, “I might as well and sings praises to God. In fact, he give up and die.” “leaps for joy” (v. 7)! His knowledge of God goes deeper than his present God’s silence is an absence not only circumstances, and so the joy of faith of words but also of actions. So David overcomes the despair he feels from prayed that the Lord would show God’s momentary silence.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Like the psalmist, we can take our feelings—any Please join us in prayer for our feelings—to the Lord. He can handle them. But Communications faculty, asking also like the psalmist, we should not wallow in the Father that everything our students learn from David self-centeredness or turn our emotions into an Fetzer, Karyn Hecht, Kelli Worrall, idol. We should express our feelings in faith. In the and Matthew Moore carry the end, the arc of faith, however long it takes, leads message of God’s goodness, love, to the joy of the Lord. He is our Rock! and salvation—to change lives!

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 13 READ PSALM 83:14, 1318

SATURDAY JUNE O God, do not remain silent; do not turn a deaf ear, do not stand aloof, O God. 9 Psalm 83:1

Divine Silence? Our Feeling of Abandonment The Lovebox device and app is enemies (vv. 2–4). In contrast to God’s marketed to lonely people in need of silence, these foes are loud. The picture encouragement. This device is a small in verse 2 describes soldiers being Wi-Fi-connected box with a heart on the mustered for battle. Words used by front. When the heart spins, it means different translations to convey the someone has used the app to send an noise include “growl,” “commotion,” encouraging message or picture. The and “uproar.” These enemies are doing heart continues to spin until you lift the everything they can to humiliate and lid of the box and read the message destroy the nation of Israel. Since these or view the picture on the tiny screen are the people God cherishes, where inside—no doubt cheering you up! is He? Some have suggested that the occasion for this psalm might be Feeling discouraged, lonely, or found in 2 Chronicles 20, when Moab, abandoned is another natural emotion Ammon, and their allies invaded Judah in response to the silence of God. To in the days of King Jehoshaphat. experience a situation in which God doesn’t speak when we expect makes The psalmist prays for God to come us feel as if He’s distant and uncaring to the rescue and win the victory (vv. (v. 1). The Message paraphrase suggests 13–18). Though he feels abandoned, he it’s as if God is giving His people the knows God is faithful. These enemies silent treatment. To feel Him as absent is need to learn that they cannot treat surely the loneliest feeling in the world! God’s people this way with impunity. They need to learn that God is God! The poetic imagery here describes being hopelessly surrounded by one’s

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US God’s voice often encourages us through our Today we continue to support brothers and sisters in the church. One response in prayer our faculty in the today would be to send a fellow believer an Communications department— Robert Gustafson, Rosalie de encouraging note, text, or email about God’s love. Rosset, Angela Brown, Brian It might seem as if God is silent or has abandoned Kammerzelt, and Jill White—as them, but He hasn’t. There’s absolutely nothing that they are getting ready for the can separate us from His love (Rom. 8:38–39). next school year at Moody.

14 TODAY IN THE WORD READ ISAIAH 64:812

SUNDAY Will you keep silent and JUNE punish us beyond measure? Isaiah 64:12 10

Divine Silence? Our Feeling of Being Punished In centuries past, a “cage of shame” them again with favor, and restore the was used for public punishments in relationship. many European towns and villages. The offender—who was deemed Now the Promised Land has become guilty of anything from adultery to a wasteland (v. 10). Solomon’s great public drunkenness to gossip—was temple has been burned to the ground. placed inside a large metal cage and The people have been conquered and put on display in the town square, sent into exile. Will there be no end to often during market days or festivals. God’s judgments? These events and He or she would often be spit upon feelings culminate in God’s silence as or even pelted with rocks and rotten the most severe of all the punishments vegetables by the crowds. (v. 12). In light of all that had happened, would He really continue to hold out Divine silence can make us feel as if or withhold Himself? That is the real God is punishing or shaming us like misery, the worst affliction, the most this. In today’s reading, the relationship painful humiliation of all! between God and His people seems broken. At first, the relationship was Isaiah’s faith and hope is revealed by close and trusting (v. 8). He was the the fact that all this is embedded in a Father, and the Israelites were His prayer. He still cried out to the Lord. children. He was the Potter, they were He did not believe that the relationship the clay (cf. Isa. 29:16; 45:9). When they is over or that God will remain silent sinned against Him, Isaiah prayed for forever. God’s covenant with Israel forgiveness (v. 9). His anger was just, is based not on Israel’s merit but on but surely He would forgive, look on God’s faithful love (Isa. 65:1–3).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US In Scripture and elsewhere, language and silence Would you uphold in prayer the are often relational metaphors: to speak indicates ministry of Samuel Choy, chief a strong relationship, presence, and blessing, while marketing officer? May the Lord guide him and help him to lead to be silent indicates an impaired relationship, several marketing teams and absence, and judgment. To explore more, visit the communicate with effectiveness Today in the Word website, todayintheword.com, the vision for Moody Global and check out the October 2012 study. Ministries to our donors.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 15 READ PSALM 109:15, 2131

MONDAY JUNE I am poor and needy, and my heart is wounded within me. 11 Psalm 109:22

Divine Silence? Our Feeling of Being Overwhelmed Pastor Gregory Fryer has taken a tip The psalmist called for God to help from the Peanuts comic. Outside his based on the glory of His name and His church on the upper east side of New unfailing love (vv. 21, 26). His description York City, every Tuesday morning he of his psychological suffering is quite sets up a yellow booth like Lucy’s vivid (vv. 22–25). He feels “poor” and (“Psychiatric Help 5¢”) and offers “needy.” His heart is “wounded.” Though prayers, Bible stories, and a listening he fasted and prayed extensively, the ear for a nickel. He even has a plate of Lord has not answered and he feels nickels available, just in case. invisible and weak. Is he nothing more than a passing “shadow” to God? An When we pray and it seems God is not annoying “locust” to be shaken off? His listening, we can feel overwhelmed. enemies “shake their heads” in scorn. At the start of Psalm 109, David was How pathetic! drowning in troubles (vv. 1–5). His response as a “man of prayer” was to Overwhelmed from within and without, call out to the Lord not to remain silent stressed out and emotionally exhausted, or passive. His enemies certainly had a David nonetheless continues to trust lot to say as they “opened their mouths” God to save him (vv. 26–31). His false against him. They were telling lies, friends need to learn that the Lord speaking hatefully, and attacking for no comes to the rescue of those who abide reason. He had counted these people in Him. That’s the sort of God He is: “He among his friends, but they had betrayed stands at the right hand of the needy to him and repaid evil for good. As David save their lives from those who would put it elsewhere, “Their throat is an open condemn them” (v. 31). grave” (Ps. 5:9).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Our faith is founded upon the rock-solid character We invite you to pray for our of God. To trust Him with our needs and anxieties Marketing Communications staff is both a privilege and a necessity. Too often, as they work hard to connect the larger Moody community to we indulge in worry or try to take care of things our ministries. Please mention ourselves. Today, prayerfully break that habit and Lynn Gabalec, Larry Bohlin, Linda instead “Cast all your anxiety on him because he Piepenbrink, Alex Rathbun, and cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7; cf. Ps. 55:22). Rob Tracy in your prayers.

16 TODAY IN THE WORD READ HABAKKUK 1:122:1

TUESDAY Why are you silent while the wicked swallow JUNE up those more righteous than themselves? Habakkuk 1:13 12

Divine Silence? Our Feeling of Anger In 2007, flamboyant Nebraska State to look on evil.” Why, then, would He Senator Ernie Chambers filed a lawsuit use one wicked nation (Babylon) to against God. He wanted a permanent punish another (Judah)? Where was the injunction against the Almighty, whom righteousness or justice in that? he blamed for various natural disasters and for failing to stop terrorism. He said In verses 14–17, Habakkuk developed he had tried to contact God previously a stinging and sarcastic metaphor to about these matters but received no give his question more force. Powerful response. The suit was dismissed people are like fishermen who catch because the court did not know where fish, sell them, and use the money to to serve notice. live in luxury without giving a second thought to the fish. Their victims are like Sometimes we feel angry about the the hapless fish who are caught, killed, silence of God. Why does He allow chopped up, and sold. The powerful natural and man-made tragedies? Is basically worship their fishing nets, it really part of His loving plan? The that is, the tools that give them power. prophet Habakkuk was thinking along Power is their idol. How long will this these lines in today’s reading: “Why are state of affairs continue? you silent while the wicked swallow up those more righteous than themselves?” Why would the Lord use such a vile nation as an instrument of His justice? The dilemma was that in Habakkuk’s Why would He remain silent while it opinion silence did not suit God’s continued its evil ways? Habakkuk felt character (vv. 12–13). He is holy and angry, but he asked his question in just and perfect. His eyes are “too pure expectant faith (2:1).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US God did answer the prophet’s question (beginning Staying connected with the in 2:2). What about us? Can we give answers for Moody community is the vital task the hope and faith that we have (see 1 Peter 3:15)? of Marketing Communications staff: Jamie Janosz, Kevin To better prepare yourself, read The Case for Faith Mungons, Cheyenne Lehto, by Lee Strobel, which deals with the “problem Anneliese Rider, Julia Baad, and of evil” (Habakkuk’s question here) as the first Katherine Madonna. Would you objection to God made by many unbelievers. support their work in prayer?

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 17 READ PSALM 30:812

WEDNESDAY JUNE Will the dust praise you? Will it proclaim your faithfulness? 13 Psalm 30:9

Divine Silence? Our Feeling of Emptiness Following God’s victory at Mount 8, 10), yet God had so far apparently Carmel, the prophet Elijah fled from remained unresponsive and silent. the vengeful anger of Queen Jezebel. After providing food, water, and rest The psalmist’s rhetorical argument is for His exhausted and depressed that one silence begets another (v. 9). If servant, God told Elijah to stand at God remains silent and does not rescue the entrance to the cave in which he him, then he will die and be unable to was resting at Mount Horeb. First offer any more praise: “What is gained came a powerful wind, “but the Lord if I am silenced, if I go down to the pit?” was not in the wind.” Then came an Only the living can worship God, a point earthquake and a fire, but He wasn’t in made throughout the psalms: “It is not those either. Finally, God spoke to Elijah the dead who praise the L™š›, those in a “gentle whisper” or a “still small who go down to the place of silence; it voice” (1 Kings 19:1–18). is we who extol the L™š›, both now and forevermore” (Ps. 115:17–18). Elijah had been feeling spiritually empty. He needed to know that God not only With faith that anticipates God’s answer, acts through impressive miracles but David ends this psalm with praise (vv. also shows His love in smaller and more 11–12). Silence will be transformed personal ways. into praise, weeping into dancing, and grief into joy! The feeling that our final In today’s reading, David also felt destiny is the pit of death is a horrible spiritually empty. He had been calling one—but not a true one. Faith knows out to the Lord for help and mercy (vv. God will be faithful.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US David wrote Psalm 30 for the dedication of the As we conclude our prayers for temple he wasn’t allowed to build. It may also be the Marketing Communications connected to his census of Israel, followed by God’s team, pray for Rachel Hutcheson, Rhonda AuYeung, Paul Currie, discipline (see 2 Samuel 24). Yet he still praised the Elena Mafter, Nikita Cunigan, and Lord! We too can praise Him no matter what. Tough Jacob Iverson. May they always circumstances? God is in control. Sin? God forgives. follow Christ and honor Him with This is the day that the Lord has made! their service at Moody.

18 TODAY IN THE WORD READ PSALM 50:16

THURSDAY Our God comes and will not be silent. JUNE Psalm 50:3 14

Divine Silence? God Speaks! Sooner or later, God always chooses we should not be slaves to them. The to speak in ways we can hear. In the psalms especially model this complex words of the great hymn writer Fanny J. dynamic of faith for us. Crosby, “The Lord Will Answer Prayer”: “His eye foresees our greatest good, / Psalm 50 shows the faith that knows While we at best are weak, / And thus God will speak—and for believers, in wisdom He withholds / The boon the utter joy of the moment He does! that oft we seek . . . Then murmur not, Sinners, though, should be afraid, but trust in Him / Who knows our every which is why God is pictured here as care, / And better far than we can ask, / a judge. He speaks with authority to The Lord will answer prayer.” summon all the earth to His courtroom (v. 1). His glorious justice is beautiful Though God may at times seem and perfect (v. 2). Whereas other silent, the ultimate reality is that He psalms wonder how long it will be speaks! Throughout this section before evil is punished, here the time of our study, the question mark for accountability has now arrived. God after “Divine Silence” has indicated will no longer be silent (v. 3). Verses 4 that this is our perception, not the through 6 make clear that the target reality. Theologically, we know God for judgment or discipline is God’s own is omnipresent, always faithful, and people, based on their covenant. always loving. Experientially, however, we don’t always feel the reality or Days of reckoning are coming. The power of these truths. Our emotions One who spoke the universe into being are real, and God cares about them, will also speak—in the perfect timing of but they can create misperceptions, so His perfect plan—perfect justice!

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Just as David used his emotions and faith to write Our Human Resources psalms, consider using your own emotions in department, under the leadership creativity and faith. You might compose a poem, of vice president Debbie Zelinski, plays an important role in bringing prayer, or song. You might also paint a picture or new employees to Moody. Pray craft a sculpture. Since we’re made in the image that God would guide the efforts of a creative God, exercising our creativity can of Darric Obinger, Jill Douglas, strengthen our faith! and Joseph Bolz.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 19 QUESTION AND ANSWER by Dr. Michael Rydelnik, Professor of Jewish Studies and Open Line Host

Where does the Bible teach personal religious ones. Some say that that a baby in the womb is a abortion is a decision made between a Q living human being? woman and her doctor, but don’t forget that a third person is involved—the Scripture clearly states that God unborn baby. Who will speak for the forms, sees, and ordains life in child? Who will protect the one who is A an unborn baby in the womb unable to save herself? (Ps. 139:13–16). God also sets people apart for service to Him from the womb, We need to remember Proverbs as He did Jeremiah (Jer. 1:5) and Paul 24:11–12: “Rescue those being led away (Gal. 1:15). If they were not living persons to death. . . . If you say, ‘But we knew while still in the womb, that would not nothing about this,’ does not he who be possible. Moreover, it’s possible weighs hearts consider it? Does not he for God to work spiritually even in an who guards your life know it? Will he not unborn baby’s life. John the Baptist was repay everyone according to what they “filled with the Holy Spirit, while yet in have done?” We must never learn to his mother’s womb” (Luke 1:15), and the tolerate abortion, and we must use all of Spirit prompted John to leap while in his our rights as citizens to work legally to mother Elizabeth’s womb when Mary, protect the unborn. pregnant with the Messiah Jesus, visited (Luke 1:41). It’s plain from Scripture that Does Exodus 21:22 teach that an unborn child is a fully human living an unborn baby does not have person, made in the image of God, and Q the same rights of a fully living therefore precious to God Himself. human person?

Even if the Bible teaches that Some have argued that the a preborn baby is alive, should Law of Moses seems to treat Q we still try to impose our A an unborn child as less than a religious views on secular society? fully living person. The 1977 version of the œžŸ¡ translation says, “And if men Abortion is not a religious struggle with each other and strike issue but a moral one. We can’t a woman with child so that she has A say, I’m personally opposed a miscarriage, yet there is no further to murder or rape because the Bible injury, he shall surely be fined as the forbids it, but I don’t want to impose my woman’s husband may demand of him; biblical values on others. That’s because and he shall pay as the judges decide.” murder and rape are moral issues, not Therefore, some people conclude that

20 TODAY IN THE WORD God forms, sees, and ordains life in an unborn baby.

since there is no requirement of the Spirit. According to the context, the death penalty for an assault and battery blasphemy of the Spirit is declaring the that causes a miscarriage, the Bible miracles of the incarnate Son of God treats an unborn baby as less than a to be works of Satan (Matt. 12:24–28). fully living person. Such a declaration is a final and full rejection of Jesus as the Messiah and But this is based on a mistranslation. The Redeemer of humanity. Hebrew word translated miscarriage literally means “to go out.” So if a man Many years ago, a woman came to my strikes a pregnant woman and the child congregation plagued with guilt for an comes out—in other words, she has a abortion she had about 15 years earlier. premature birth but the child lives—he She kept telling herself that she was still has to pay a penalty. This translation just removing unwanted tissue—but her is reflected in virtually all contemporary conscience kept telling her otherwise. English versions, including the updated When she met with my wife and me, †‡ˆ‰ (which reads, “If men struggle with we were grateful that we could tell each other and strike a woman with her that God still loved her and that child so that she gives birth prematurely “while we were still sinners, Christ died . . .”). This corrected translation shows for us” (Rom. 5:8). If she put her trust that God is even concerned for the in Jesus’ death on her behalf and His rights of preborn children. resurrection to new life, she would be forgiven forever (Eph. 1:7–8), and “there Is abortion the is now no condemnation for those who unpardonable sin? are in Christ Jesus” (Rom. 8:1). This dear Q woman responded with joy and trusted in Jesus upon hearing the good news. Termination of a life, even Amazingly, she has been free of guilt before birth, is so serious that now for many years. A some people think this is the one sin that God can’t forgive. Jesus What about someone who is already did indeed speak of a sin that was a follower of Jesus and then has unforgivable: “Every kind of sin and an abortion? Scripture teaches that slander can be forgiven, but blasphemy even that person can be restored to against the Spirit will not be forgiven” fellowship with God and experience (Matt. 12:31). Clearly, the Lord was not true pardon (1 John 1:9). No sin is speaking about abortion but rather greater than God’s ability to forgive and about the blasphemy of the Holy restore, and that includes abortion.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 21 READ ECCLESIASTES 5:17

FRIDAY JUNE Much dreaming and many words are meaningless. Therefore fear God. 15 Ecclesiastes 5:7

Silence and Spiritual Walk: Many Words Are Foolish The term dorbellist has fallen out of you are on earth, so let your words be use, but lexicographer Kory Stamper of few” (v. 2). The “sacrifice of fools,” by Merriam-Webster would like to revive it. contrast, is the babbling of many words. This word means “fool,” specifically the The proverb of verse 3 is a guarantee: kind of fool who appears to be smart As surely as many cares cause restless but actually isn’t. or idle dreams, so also foolishness causes many words. Solomon seems to have exactly this kind of fool in mind in today’s reading. When making vows to the Lord, for Today we begin a new section in our example, many words can get one in month’s study, examining silence as a trouble (vv. 4–6). Even if people speak part of our daily walk with the Lord. The impulsively or insincerely, they will beginning of Ecclesiastes 5 makes a not be let off the hook but will be held simple point in this regard: wisdom is accountable. God does not forget— associated with silence or few words, promises made to Him must be kept! while foolishness is associated with the opposite (see Eccl. 9:17). To fear the Lord, then, is to avoid the trap of many words and to exercise These points are made in the context self-discipline of the tongue (v. 7). The of worship: “Guard your steps when word meaningless connects this point you go to the house of God” (v. 1). To with the main theme of Ecclesiastes. “go near to listen” means to go with a Language is created by God; therefore, humble, teachable, obedient attitude, words have significance, meaning, and one that is slow to speak in light of power and should be handled with God’s greatness. “God is in heaven and caution and reverence.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Are our prayers long and showy (Matt. 6:5–8)? Are Today, continuing to pray for the we constantly posting on social media? Or are we Human Resources employees, listening quietly for words of wisdom, and perhaps we ask that God’s blessings would follow the lives of Marcy even speaking some from time to time? Ask the Torres, Mia Gale, Peter Miller, and Lord to help you guard your tongue and avoid the Michelle Hughes, as they oversee trap of foolishness that masquerades as too many many aspects of Moody’s work words without wisdom. environment.

22 TODAY IN THE WORD READ PSALM 32

SATURDAY When I kept silent, my bones wasted JUNE away through my groaning all day long. Psalm 32:3 16

Silence and Spiritual Walk: Resisting Conviction Augustine said about confession of sin: The psalmist exhorted his fellow “Because I have sinned, I must declare worshipers to do the same (vv. 6–8). my unrighteousness, confess my sins God loves us. He can be trusted with to the Lord, and stop trying to hide my our shameful secrets—in fact, He guilt. The emphasis must be on that already knows them. He’s not waiting I did it myself. It was not fate, not my to ambush or punish us, but to forgive horoscope, not the devil. He did not us. Sin interferes with closeness to force me to sin, but I consented to his God, so He also wants to teach us how persuasive temptations. And when I to avoid sin and live righteously. To be confess my rebellion to the Lord, I can under conviction of sin means God is say with the psalmist, ‘And you forgave graciously driving us to do what’s right me! All my guilt is gone.’” and what’s good for us.

Psalm 32 is a beautiful poem about Why, then, would we act like a the blessing and beauty of God’s stubborn mule (vv. 9–10)? Don’t do forgiveness (vv. 1–2, 11). David had what I did, David warns. Only an idiot at first resisted this blessing—His would refuse to confess and repent! silence here is the silence of resisting The “woes of the wicked” and the God’s conviction of sin. His rebellious unrepentant are self-inflicted, but if we refusal to confess his sin brought confess and repent, we can trade inner about much inner suffering (vv. 3–4). anguish for being immersed in God’s In the end, God broke through and unfailing love (v. 10). David repented and experienced the profound relief and blessing of forgiveness (v. 5).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Confession of sin should be a regular habit. Our Please pray for the ministry society doesn’t talk much about sin, preferring to say of Mollie Bond, who serves in people make mistakes or are trapped in systems or Foundations and Corporate Relations, as she establishes “act out” and need therapy. But by repenting of sin relationships with various and accepting God’s forgiveness, we demonstrate companies and organizations, that repentance brings peace and joy in our involving interested partners in relationship with God and brings glory to Him. Moody’s ministries.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 23 READ DANIEL 10:1
19

SUNDAY JUNE Peace! Be strong now; be strong. 17 Daniel 10:19

Silence and Spiritual Walk: The Silence of Waiting In “A Better Resurrection,” Victorian shepherds all had to be told by an poet Christina Rossetti expressed the angel, “Do not be afraid.” When Christ pain of waiting in silence before the appeared to John the Apostle in his Lord: “I have no wit, no words, no tears; apocalyptic vision, John fell at His feet / My heart within me like a stone / Is as though dead, overcome by God’s numb’d too much for hopes or fears; / glory (Rev. 1:17–18). Look right, look left, I dwell alone; / I lift mine eyes, but dimm’d with grief / No The date was 536 ž.Ÿ., which means everlasting hills I see; / My life is in the Daniel was 84 years old. The first Jews falling leaf: / O Jesus, quicken me.” had returned from exile to Jerusalem two years previously, but things were Today’s passage describes Daniel’s not going well. Daniel had been praying difficult days of waiting for the Lord and fasting continually and earnestly to answer a prayer. When the angel for God to come to their aid. God sent God sent at last appeared, Daniel fell an angel with an answer for His “highly with his face to the ground and later esteemed” or “greatly loved” servant, responded with speechless anguish. but the angel had been delayed Both times the angel touched him to twenty-one days due to warfare with a give him renewed strength (vv. 10–11, fallen angel (vv. 12–14). This had been 15–19). a difficult time for Daniel as he waited on the Lord. Notice that “waiting” here Being overcome with fear is a does not mean passively standing common reaction in Scripture to divine around; rather, “waiting” means actively phenomena. In the Christmas story, seeking and worshiping the Lord. for example, Zechariah, Mary, and the

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Daniel’s experience reminds us that we often don’t On today’s Father’s Day, as we have all the information “behind the scenes” in honor fathers in our lives, let’s the spiritual realm. We aren’t promised that God thank God for His Father’s love, mercy, and grace. What joy it is will tell us about the spiritual warfare being waged to be a child of God and to come on our behalf, but we have His assurance that He to Him with Jesus’ words, “Our continues to hear our prayers and heartfelt cries to Father in heaven”! Him. Our waiting can be worship.

24 TODAY IN THE WORD READ 2 KINGS 18:2837

The people remained silent and said MONDAY nothing in reply, because the king had JUNE commanded, “Do not answer him.” 2 Kings 18:36 18

Silence and Spiritual Walk: The Silence of Self-Control In Teaching and Christian Practices: gods of Assyria are always stronger Reshaping Faith and Learning, Rebecca (vv. 30, 35). Konyndyk DeYoung described a spiritual exercise she did with her students on Insulting God was a fatal mistake. The the vice of “vainglory,” defined as “the Lord is no local deity, no handcrafted disordered desire for attention and piece of stone like the “gods” of approval.” The exercise: No talking other nations. By denying that God about yourself for one week. This could deliver them, the commander proved more difficult than anticipated. essentially guaranteed his own defeat. “[W]e quickly got a robust experiential taste of how deeply rooted a vice can The Israelites on the wall responded be, and how blissfully unaware we were admirably—with silence (v. 36). They that we even had it.” didn’t argue. They didn’t beg for favorable terms of surrender. They Silence requires self-control. The followed King Hezekiah’s orders to say army of Assyria besieged Jerusalem nothing. While the king’s envoys were in the days of King Hezekiah. The appalled by the blasphemy and thrown field commander also engaged in into grief and despair, the people psychological warfare, speaking endured the taunting in silence. Hebrew and hoping to prompt a revolt against their leaders: Don’t believe The ability to control one’s tongue whatever your king is telling you. requires the Holy Spirit’s help. Without Assyria is stronger than Judah; you Him, “no human being can tame the have no chance of winning. And don’t tongue. It is a restless evil, full of trust God to deliver you either. The deadly poison” (James 3:8).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Consider doing the same exercise from the Today, pray for Dr. Bryan O’Neal, opening illustration. For one whole week, don’t VP and dean of Moody Distance speak about yourself, either orally or in writing Learning, and the staff in his office—Albert Chelladurai and (yes, this includes social media). Instead, listen to Ewa Gutierrez—who work others and attentively observe the world around together to provide Christian you. Pray that the Lord will use this exercise to education to students around decrease our self-centeredness. the country.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 25 READ LAMENTATIONS 3:1933

TUESDAY JUNE It is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD. 19 Lamentations 3:26

Silence and Spiritual Walk: The Silence of Grief Nineteenth-century businessman cf. 1:14), which is suffering that results Horatio G. Spafford suffered one tragedy from reaping what one has sowed after another. His son died of illness. and receiving the Lord’s discipline. The Great Chicago Fire destroyed much That comprised the bulk of Jeremiah’s of his wealth. When he sent his wife, prophecies, and now it was happening Anna, and four daughters to Europe, a to the nation during his lifetime. shipwreck claimed the lives of all four girls. During his voyage to rejoin Anna, His response was to wait quietly on the place where the disaster occurred the Lord: “Let him sit alone in silence, was pointed out to him. Spafford went to for the LœžŸ has laid it on him” (v. 28). his room and penned the classic hymn, Putting one’s face in the dust signifies “It Is Well with My Soul.” submission to God’s will (v. 29), and turning the other cheek signifies How could he do that? How could he humility before others (v. 30). Both say that? Because like Jeremiah in actions are appropriate to the mood, today’s reading, he had unwavering content, and form of lament. hope in God’s unfailing love (vv. 21–23). Though “the bitterness and the gall” are The silence of lament is complex, real and cause his soul to be downcast involving patience, restfulness, and (vv. 19–20), he recalls an even more faith-filled expectancy as well as grief, important truth: “His compassions never which is strong. But hope is even fail. They are new every morning.” stronger, because God’s character is the most absolutely real thing in the What was Jeremiah lamenting? The universe (vv. 31–33; cf. Isa. 54:7–8). “yoke” of deserved suffering (v. 27;

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Does it feel as though your prayers are being shut For the next two days, include out (Lam. 3:8)? Lament is an appropriate response. in your prayers the Financial Aid In lament, grief and pain can be expressed while Office team. Thank the Lord for Heather Shalley, Tammy Easter, at the same time one waits on the Lord in peace, and Timothy Krug for their service patience, and steadfast faith. Scripture provides us of helping our students receive with helpful examples of lament; in addition to the a Moody education and go into book of Lamentations, read Psalm 102. ministry without debt.

26 TODAY IN THE WORD READ JOB 2:1113

WEDNESDAY No one said a word to him, because JUNE they saw how great his suffering was. Job 2:13 20

Silence and Spiritual Walk: The Silence of Empathy Visiting people in the hospital and Zophar agreed to meet up and go to sitting by sickbeds is very often a “sympathize with him and comfort him” ministry of listening and silence. What (v. 11). Despite what happens later, their we might want to say to comfort and desire to console him was apparently encourage them is very often the genuine. When they saw him, scraping wrong thing or mere platitudes— his sores as he sat among the ashes, nothing truly helpful, and sometimes they were utterly shocked. They hardly things that are actually harmful. But knew the man they had called a friend. to just listen and be with people is a They wept aloud, tore their clothing, ministry of presence that can bring and sprinkled dust on their heads— God’s comfort and encouragement. all signs of intense grief and mourning (v. 12). When Job’s friends came to visit, they started well with the silence of Then the three of them sat silently genuine empathy. Job had recently with him for an entire week (v. 13). suffered the loss of his considerable This showed a deep empathy for his earthly goods, his social status, all his physical, mental, and spiritual suffering. children, and his health. He did not It also showed respect—Job should know what readers of the book know be the one to speak first. Perhaps about the council in heaven, but he words seemed powerless in the face had nonetheless stood steadfast in his of what had happened. Perhaps they faith in God (1:20–22; 2:10). were afraid of making things worse by speaking (as did indeed happen). Having heard the stunning news, If only they had never opened their Job’s friends Eliphaz, Bildad, and mouths at all (see Job 13:1–12)!

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US If your church has a visitation ministry, consider Mention in your prayers the staff volunteering for it. If not, consider helping to start of Financial Aid Office: Daniel one. There is much pain and brokenness in this Auzenne, Sherry Allen, and Vanita Francis. We pray they fallen world. It doesn’t matter if you don’t know would have peace and joy in what to say. In fact, it might be better that way, for their hearts, and confidence in this is a ministry primarily of presence not of words God’s guidance for their lives. (see Rom. 12:15).

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 27 READ PSALM 4

THURSDAY JUNE When you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. 21 Psalm 4:4

Silence and Spiritual Walk: Self-Examination Jenn Granneman, author of The Secret Psalm 4 opens with a call for God to Lives of Introverts, described “12 things answer and help (v. 1). A warning is then introverts absolutely need to be happy.” issued that He is on the way (vv. 2–3). One is “comfortable silences”—friends It closes with David’s confidence in the they can be with without talking. Lord, including the security, joy, and Another is “a quiet, calm space that’s peace he experiences through trusting all theirs,” as well as “time and space Him (vv. 6–8). to work uninterrupted.” Yet another is “time to think before responding,” or At the center of the psalm are two even the freedom not to respond at all. verses about the kind of worshiper David wants to be, and the kind of Silence enables many qualities worshipers he as king wants his people and activities. One of these is self- to be (vv. 4–5). A genuine worshiper examination, as David pointed out in doesn’t respond to a crisis primarily Psalm 4. The purpose of silence in in fear or panic, but rather with self- Christian self-examination is to help examination: “Search your hearts and clear the mind of distractions in order be silent.” The search is focused on to focus on God (Ps. 46:10). God is the two implied questions: Are you offering source of accurate self-knowledge, “the sacrifices of the righteous”? That and, as we seek to reflect on our is, do you have any sin to confess? experiences, we need His help to And are you trusting God completely? understand them fruitfully. Scripture Such self-examination results in either also uses such words as “meditate” and repentance or increased faith, both of “ponder” to describe this discipline (see which will draw the worshiper closer to Ps. 77:12; 107:43). the Lord.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US It might be a helpful idea to post verses 4 and 8 Vice president and dean of Moody of today’s reading near your bed as reminders. Theological Seminary, Dr. John Verse 4 suggests, “When you are on your beds, Jelinek, invites you to praise God for the graduate education search your hearts and be silent.” Verse 8 rejoices, ministry He has granted to Moody “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, over the years and to pray that Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Another option is the coming school year would to “sing for joy” on your beds (Ps. 149:5)! continue to glorify Him.

28 TODAY IN THE WORD READ ESTHER 4:917

If you remain silent at this time, FRIDAY relief and deliverance for the Jews JUNE will arise from another place. Esther 4:14 22

Silence and Spiritual Walk: Silence, Fear, and Faith Pastor Martin Niemöller spent seven her life, for if she entered the king’s years in Nazi concentration camps. At presence without being summoned the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum and if he then didn’t pardon her by in Washington, D.C., his words are extending his scepter, she would be on display: “First they came for the killed. (The king already considered Socialists, and I did not speak out— queens to be disposable; see Esther 1.) because I was not a Socialist. Then When Esther pointed this out, Mordecai they came for the Trade Unionists, and responded that the bigger risk was I did not speak out—because I was God’s disfavor. If she remained silent, not a Trade Unionist. Then they came He would save His people by another for the Jews, and I did not speak out— means, while she and her family would because I was not a Jew. Then they perish (vv. 12–14). Remaining silent came for me—and there was no one would be a choice of fear, not faith. left to speak for me.” Saving her skin would be possible only by denying her own identity and In today’s reading, Esther faced a ignoring the possibility that God had similar moral and spiritual challenge. placed her where she was “for such a Haman had plotted and the Persian time as this.” emperor had decreed genocide against her people. Would she speak Esther bravely chose to do as her uncle out? Would it do any good? advised, but she did not act alone (vv. 15–17). She asked all the Jews in the Esther’s uncle, Mordecai, told her area to fast and pray with her for three to plead to the king for mercy. Such days. Then she would go to the king a course of action involved risking and see what God would do.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US How can we follow the examples of Esther and Ken Heulitt, chief financial officer, Pastor Niemöller and speak up for powerless and and his team provide overall victimized people? Current examples in our nation direction to Moody’s financial management. Join Ken in prayer, include the poor, the unborn, and refugees, with thanking God for unique financial many more groups around the world. Speaking partnerships and friendship with against injustice may or may not be popular, but it our donors over the years. is not the world’s approval we seek—only God’s.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 29 READ ISAIAH 30:1518

SATURDAY JUNE In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength. 23 Isaiah 30:15

Silence and Spiritual Walk: The Quiet Strength of Faith In To Know as We Are Known: Educa- in quietness and trust is your strength” tion as a Spiritual Journey, Parker J. (v. 15). To repent is to turn back to Palmer wrote of his efforts to establish the Lord, to rest in the certainty of a discipline of silence in his classrooms: His forgiving love. In such rest and “Eventually my students feel a sense of trust there is no need for posturing community in the silence that is deeper or anxiety—God is in control! Like all than what they feel when the words are faith, quiet faith is strong because of its flowing fast and hard. Words so often object—God. divide us, but silence can unite.” Tragically, the people of Judah “would As we’ve seen, silence is a key have none of it.” Instead of repenting dimension—sometimes negative but and waiting on the Lord, they put their often positive—in our spiritual walk. It’s confidence in earthly factors such as part of community, it’s part of worship, horses (cf. Ps. 20:7). In God’s poetic and it’s part of our relationship with the justice, they would eventually be forced Lord. Today’s reading reminds us that to flee on horses (vv. 16–17). strong faith is often quiet faith. This makes sense, for if we find our security Despite their stubborn rebelliousness, in the Almighty there’s no need to boast Isaiah reminded them that God remains or “talk ourselves into it.” Such faith may gracious and compassionate (v. 18). be “silent,” but it speaks volumes to Justice will be done—that is, Judah’s those around us. conquest and exile—but that would not be the end of the story. One day they This is the way it should be: “In would again be blessed by Him! repentance and rest is your salvation,

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US In what do we find our strength? Maybe we know Would you join us in thanking we’re supposed to answer “God”—but is this true God for the service of the Student for you? Or do our lives reveal that we put our Dining Room crew? Today, let’s encourage in prayer Brianne confidence in our brains, our “correct opinions,” Dueck, Gonzalo Garcia, Gregory our vocational success, or our bank accounts? Are Dickson, and Jeffery Williams who we willing to daily confess and repent from sin, provide our students and faculty then simply rest in God’s forgiving love? with nutritious meals.

30 TODAY IN THE WORD READ JOHN 1:15

SUNDAY In the beginning was the Word, and the Word JUNE was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:1 24

Silence and the Gospel: Jesus as the Logos Aramaic was the lingua franca of the intended to signify both as well as to Middle East in the days of Jesus. transcend both. To the Jewish mind, Everyone spoke it. Parts of the Bible Logos meant God’s words, specifically are written in it. Though Arabic the Law, and by extension God’s replaced it as the key language for creation and governance of the world. the region in the seventh century To the Greek mind, Logos referred to ‚.ƒ., Aramaic endured through the both spoken and unspoken language centuries. But linguists now believe it and more importantly to an impersonal is dying, with its last two generations of principle of reason or rationality. speakers driven from their homes by war and persecution now spread out The coming of Christ the Logos is like around the world. light in a dark place—the best Word humanity has ever heard! Just as God Human languages may die, but Jesus spoke light into creation, now comes is the divine Word who has conquered His Son to speak life where there had death and given eternal life to all who been only death. Darkness and death believe on His name. Our month’s have been overcome once and for all study now moves into its final section, by the victorious Christ. “Silence and the Gospel.” In light of the fact that Jesus is God’s final Logos, The theme of silence and the gospel what roles has silence played in the must be situated within the context of Gospel narrative? Christ as the Divine Word. He broke four centuries of “prophetic silence” John knew both the Jewish and Greek to accomplish God’s mission of senses of the word Logos and clearly redemption and bring hope to us all!

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The apostle John opened his Gospel with words As we continue to keep our Food that directly evoke Genesis 1. If you have time, Service team in prayer, please add we suggest you read Genesis 1 as part of your Hoa Lam, Jonathan True, Martin Rios, and Paul Houk to your devotional time today. Set the two passages side- list. It’s not an easy task to feed by-side in order to better examine the themes and several hundred people every day, parallels. Creation and Incarnation are inextricably and we are so grateful for their intertwined and life-changing realities! hard work and positive attitude.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 31 READ LUKE 1:522

MONDAY JUNE And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens. 25 Luke 1:20

Silence and the Gospel: Zechariah’s Gift of Silence In Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies, message, Zechariah was told he would Marilyn Chandler McEntyre observed: be “silent and not able to speak” “Silence is hard to come by. . . . We until his son’s birth (v. 20). He was surround ourselves with ubiquitous immediately kophos or mute, as we means of filling or simply obliterating see in his inability to pronounce the it. . . . But if we are to care for the work blessing (v. 22). But kophos can also that words do, we must be willing to mean deaf (or both mute and deaf), and open up silences in our minds and in we can infer his deafness from the text our days. Our words matter only to the since his neighbors had to make signs extent that they have been allowed to to him to figure out how to name the germinate and take root in silence.” child (vv. 61–63). In addition, they were amazed at his response, which they Given this, silence can be a gift. And wouldn’t have been if he had heard all it was a gift God gave to Zechariah, that had been said. though we are not accustomed to reading the narrative in this way. From this perspective, God gave In today’s reading, in response to Zechariah a precious gift of time— Gabriel’s announcement that he and nine months. Nine months in a perfect his wife would finally have a child, for cocoon of silence—to repent of his which they had long prayed, Zechariah lack of faith, to prepare spiritually for responded doubtfully, “How can I be parenthood, to praise God for answered sure of this?” (v. 18). prayer, and to meditate on the prophecy that his son would be filled with the Spirit As a punishment for his lack of faith, and bring people back to the Lord. and as a sign of the truth of the angel’s

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The book Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies by In conclusion of this time of prayer Marilyn Chandler McEntyre is well worth reading. for the Food Service team, please One chapter is titled, “Cherish Silence,” but most mention Rachel Campbell, Sarah Revor, Seth Mendez, of the book deals with words and language. How Steven Frausto, and Vinh Sy does the Creator of language intend for us to use Hoang during your time with God. it? And in what ways does that differ from how Thank the Lord for His leading words are used in contemporary society? and direction in their lives.

32 TODAY IN THE WORD READ LUKE 20:2026

TUESDAY Astonished by his answer, JUNE they became silent. Luke 20:26 26

Silence and the Gospel: Pharisees’ Silence of Defeat Atheist philosopher Bertrand Russell but whose goal was to get Jesus in was asked what he would do if he died trouble with the political authorities (v. and Christianity turned out to be true. 20). They thought they had the perfect He would arrive at the gates of heaven question: “Is it right for us to pay taxes and God would ask, “Why didn’t you to Caesar or not?” (v. 22). It was a lose- believe?” What would he say? Russell lose question. If He said no, He would said he would answer: “Not enough be in trouble with the government. If evidence, God! Not enough evidence!” He said yes, He would be in trouble with the Jews, who hated collaborators God has already given His reply—the (like tax collectors). evidence is sufficient (Rom. 1:18–20). But for those who refuse to believe, Jesus saw through their duplicity and there is never enough “evidence.” gave the perfect answer (v. 25). So the That was true for Bertrand Russell, and silence in this story is the silence of it was true for the religious leaders their defeat (v. 26). One wonders why in today’s reading. Despite Jesus’ they were “astonished,” since every miracles and authoritative teaching, previous trap question had also failed. they simply refused to believe. Instead, Predictably, the Son of God was smarter they asked trick questions to try to trap and a better debater, not to mention and discredit Him. that He had a perfect knowledge of truth. The Sadducees would make one By this point, they weren’t coming more run at Him on the topic of the in person, for that would have been resurrection and marriage, but after too embarrassing. Instead they sent that no one dared to ask Him any more “spies, who pretended to be sincere” questions (vv. 27–40).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Some skeptics are hardened against Christianity. Please include in your prayer Others are genuine seekers who want to know time Moody’s IT team headed why we believe. One insightful book that has stood by Frank Leber, vice president of Information Technology Services. the test of time is Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis. Thank the Lord for this team’s Another, more contemporary resource that has computer expertise that adds an helped many is The Reason for God: Belief in an important part to the big picture Age of Skepticism by Timothy Keller. of God’s work at Moody.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 33 READ MATTHEW 26:5764

WEDNESDAY JUNE Jesus remained silent. 27 Matthew 26:63

Silence and the Gospel: Jesus’ Silence of Victory Eighteen years ago, archaeologists said He could destroy and rebuild the uncovered the site of one of the most temple in three days. They may have famous events in the New Testament— had in mind the words of Christ in John the trial of Jesus. They were preparing 2:18–22, in which He used the temple to expand the Tower of David Museum as a metaphor for His body and His in Jerusalem by getting rid of an future resurrection. abandoned building next door. But when they started digging, they found Caiaphas challenged Jesus to defend the remains of Herod the Great’s Himself, but He didn’t respond (v. 63). palace, where at least one of the trials He knew the witnesses were coerced. preceding Christ’s crucifixion occurred. He knew the verdict was rigged. He knew what would happen next. And During His trial before the Sanhedrin in most of all, He knew this was God’s today’s reading, Jesus remained silent. perfect plan. To remain silent was thus The seventy members of the Sanhedrin an act of obedience and submission to (a kind of religious high court) included the Father’s will. chief priests, elders, and teachers of the law, presided over by the high priest, When Caiaphas challenged Jesus a Caiaphas. They had already decided second time, he used formal, serious Jesus was guilty and should be put to language that would have been death, so this was a kangaroo court. extremely rude to ignore. So Jesus All they needed was enough false answered, but still not to defend evidence to make a decent show of it Himself. Instead, He affirmed that He (vv. 59–60). Despite some confusion, was indeed the Messiah and in fact two witnesses testified that He had the very Son of God (v. 64).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Jesus had demonstrated His ability to best any We ask that you uphold in prayer antagonist or debating challenge. But true victory Collin Lambert, vice president lay elsewhere. For us, too, winning debates and of Moody Radio. Pray that the Lord would bless the ministry defending ourselves isn’t always the point. Along of Moody Radio and would give these lines, it’s worth considering Christ’s example Collin wisdom in making decisions in today’s reading. Where in your life might silence and strength in facing everyday show godly obedience and submission? challenges.

34 TODAY IN THE WORD READ ISAIAH 53:712

THURSDAY As a sheep before its shearers is silent, JUNE so he did not open his mouth. Isaiah 53:7 28

Silence and the Gospel: “He Did Not Open His Mouth” Preaching from Luke’s account of Jesus’ Jesus was unjustly condemned and trial before Pilate, theologian Gary Millar suffered greatly before His death as argued that Jesus’ silence was “a calm a criminal in the eyes of the world (vv. and considered strategy,” not “despair 8–9). Mysteriously and wonderfully, or stubbornness.” It was more than a this was God’s perfect redemptive plan refusal to “put on a show for Herod” or (vv. 10–12). The Messiah’s death would to “be drawn into defending himself in not endure—“he will see the light of life” a sham trial. . . . He is silent. And by his (v. 11). He would win the victory over sin controlled silence, he brings his death and death. for us one step closer. By choosing not to speak, he exercises perfect control of As the conquering Lamb of God, Jesus the situation.” was the once-for-all sacrifice for sin. John the Baptist identified Him as Jesus’ silence was obedient, purpose- “the Lamb of God, who takes away ful—and prophesied long before. the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). In his Today’s passage is a messianic apocalyptic vision, the apostle John saw prophecy and part of the fourth of a vision of the risen Lamb (Rev. 5:6–13), four “Servant songs” in the book of who is worshiped with these words: Isaiah. Despite being “oppressed and “You are worthy to take the scroll and to afflicted,” Jesus “did not open his open its seals, because you were slain, mouth” to complain or protest or beg and with your blood you purchased for relief (v. 7). “He was led like a lamb for God persons from every tribe and to the slaughter, and as a sheep before language and people and nation.” its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.”

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Jesus could have fought His persecutors, but He The staff of Moody Radio’s KMBI— chose not to do so. Instead, He followed God’s broadcasting from Spokane, plan and left justice and revenge in His hands (see Wash.—are Joe Gonzalez, Scott Carlon, Dee Marie, and Chris 1 Peter 2:21–24). We should do the same: “Do not Wright. They have this request: take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for “Please pray for each of us, that God’s wrath. . . . Do not be overcome by evil, but we would keep the road He has overcome evil with good” (Rom. 12:19–21). laid for us in clear view.”

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 35 READ REVELATION 8:1
5

FRIDAY JUNE When he opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. 29 Revelation 8:1

Silence and the Gospel: Silence in Heaven Singer-songwriter Sandra McCracken The Africa Study Bible adds: “This believes that “Our Silence Is Music to monumental occasion was such God’s Ears,” the title of a recent article a significant event that even the in Christianity Today. “When I’m quiet,” inhabitants of heaven had to stand she admits, “things float up to the in silent awe.” The Moody Bible surface from the shadow places in my Commentary notes that silence heart that I haven’t wanted to deal with. can indicate both anticipation and But after a time, I can tune my ears to submission and is a fitting response hear the still, small whisper of God. . . . to God’s judgment (Zeph. 1:7). In our Silence is the waiting posture that helps month’s study, this points us back to us to be poised to hear God’s voice.” Habakkuk 2:20, where silence is a reverent and worshipful response to the That’s the basic significance of the bottom-line reality that God is sovereign “silence in heaven” following the and righteous. opening of the seventh seal by the Lamb, Jesus Christ (v. 1). One study When the heavenly silence is broken, Bible calls this a “dramatic pause.” it’s by the “prayers of all God’s people,” Another says the silence “sustains as symbolized by the golden censer the suspense.” In other words, this is and incense presented by an angel the calm before the storm, since the before God’s throne (vv. 3–4; cf. Rev. seventh seal begins the seven trumpet 6:10). The narrative resumes, with judgments, which in turn lead into the “fire from the altar” striking the earth seven bowl judgments. The silence to signal the start of the trumpet here does play this narrative function, judgments (v. 5). but is that its only role?

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US As we reflect on today’s passage, how is silence Please join the staff of Moody part of our daily worship and of our relationship Radio Chattanooga—Paul Martin, with the Lord? Are we always talking to God and Jason McKay, Tabi Upton, and Brent Manion—in thanksgiving never listening? What does He have to do to get for how the Lord has touched our attention? Are we alert for His “still small countless lives over the years voice”? Do we have that “waiting posture that through WMBW’s biblical teaching helps us to be poised to hear God’s voice”? and inspirational music.

36 TODAY IN THE WORD READ ISAIAH 62:17

SATURDAY Till her vindication shines out like the dawn, JUNE her salvation like a blazing torch. Isaiah 62:1 30

Conclusion: “For Zion’s Sake I Will Not Keep Silent” Jeremiah did not particularly enjoy We are to pray relentlessly for this being God’s prophet. It brought him event—which we now know to be “insult and reproach all day long.” But Christ’s Second Coming—to arrive if he tried to remain silent: “His word (vv. 6–7). Watchfulness is a key biblical is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up theme related to Christ’s return, as in my bones. I am weary of holding it seen, for example, in the parable of in; indeed, I cannot.” God Himself said the ten virgins, lamps, and oil (see that the words of a true prophet would Matt. 25:1–13). be “like fire . . . and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces” (Jer. 20:7–9; “Watchmen on the walls” are the ones 23:25–32). who see first what is approaching. In the same way, those who are faithful God’s prophet Isaiah was compelled to in prayer (Col. 4:2) will be the first to proclaim the awe-inspiring word of the rejoice when the time comes. Lord: “For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent” (v. 1). Why not? “For Zion’s sake” Among and around the riches of the or “for Jerusalem’s sake” means for the biblical theme of silence is the life- sake of God’s people—until they are saving truth that ultimately God is saved and vindicated. Israel’s salvation not silent. He has spoken and acted will be a “crown of splendor” or a “royal to reveal Himself in creation, history, diadem” in God’s hand, a witness to all Scripture, and the Person of His Son, the world that He keeps His promises, Jesus Christ! loves faithfully, and is mighty to save (vv. 2–3). That day will be like a joyous wedding celebration (vv. 4–5).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Isaiah could not keep silent, and neither should we! As we come to the end of this Sharing the good news of the gospel is our sacred month’s study, let’s praise God privilege and responsibility: “I tell you, whoever for speaking to us and for hearing our prayers. We’d like to thank publicly acknowledges me before others, the Son you, members of the Moody of Man will also acknowledge before the angels of family, for your faithful prayers, God. But whoever disowns me before others will be generosity, and friendship. disowned before the angels of God” (Luke 12:8–9).

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