CELEBRATING

30 Yeaɾs
JUNE 2018

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, NASB).
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, LORD, 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
To learn more, read

by Bruce
Demarest (Zondervan).
MANAGING EDITOR
Heather Moffitt
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 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
pen.” This is also good advice for our Bible study with
INTERIM PRESIDENT 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!
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 , copyright
Mark Wagner © 2018 by Moody Global Ministries. All rights reserved. Please direct all
Richard E. Warren inquiries to Donor Resource Management, 820 N. LaSalle Blvd.,
Chicago, IL 60610. Scripture taken from the ®,
Richard Yook
NIV®, copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission.
All rights reserved worldwide. Scripture taken from the
®, copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by
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TODAYINTHEWORD.COM
 READ ECCLESIASTES 3:1–8

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.

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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 2:18–20

SATURDAY
The LORD is in his holy temple; JUNE

2
let all the earth be silent before him.
Habakkuk 2:20

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 LORD 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 LORD, for the day of the
Today’s verse and especially the LORD 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
LORD 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.”

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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 LORD.” 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 10:1–7

SUNDAY This is what the LORD spoke . . .

JUNE “In the sight of all the people I will
3 be honored.” Aaron remained silent.
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.

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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

4
If the LORD is God, follow him.
1 Kings 18:21

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 LORD 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 LORD—he is God! The LORD—he
translated as “waver” can also mean is God!” (v. 39).

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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 40:1–7

TUESDAY
JUNE I am unworthy—how can I reply to you?

5
I put my hand over my mouth.
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,

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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

6
I am like a weaned child with its mother.
Psalm 131:2

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.

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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 35:17–28

THURSDAY
JUNE LORD, you have seen this; do not be silent.

7
Do not be far from me, Lord.
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!

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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

8
like those who go down to the pit.
Psalm 28:1

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.

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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

9
a deaf ear, do not stand aloof, O God.
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

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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 64:8–12

SUNDAY
Will you keep silent and JUNE

10
punish us beyond measure?
Isaiah 64:12

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).

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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

11
heart is wounded within me.
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).

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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 1:12–2:1

TUESDAY
Why are you silent while the wicked swallow JUNE

12
up those more righteous than themselves?
Habakkuk 1:13

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).

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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 30:8–12

WEDNESDAY
JUNE Will the dust praise you?

13
Will it proclaim your faithfulness?
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 LORD, 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 LORD, 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.

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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 50:1–6

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!

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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

Q 
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
living human being? woman and her doctor, but don’t forget
that a third person is involved—the

A
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
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

Q 
(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 the same rights of a fully living
therefore precious to God Himself. human person?

Q  A
Even if the Bible teaches that Some have argued that the
a preborn baby is alive, should Law of Moses seems to treat
we still try to impose our an unborn child as less than a
religious views on secular society? fully living person. The 1977 version of
the NASV translation says, “And if men

A
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
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,
NASV (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

Q 
Is abortion the is now no condemnation for those who
unpardonable sin? are in Christ Jesus” (Rom. 8:1). This dear
woman responded with joy and trusted
in Jesus upon hearing the good news.

A
Termination of a life, even Amazingly, she has been free of guilt
before birth, is so serious that now for many years.
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

15
are meaningless. Therefore fear God.
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.

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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

16
away through my groaning all day long.
Psalm 32:3

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).

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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!

17
Be strong now; be strong.
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 B.C., 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

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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).

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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

19
the salvation of the LORD.
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 LORD 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;

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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 2:11–13

WEDNESDAY
No one said a word to him, because JUNE

20
they saw how great his suffering was.
Job 2:13

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)!

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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,

21
search your hearts and be silent.
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.

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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 4:9–17

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.

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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,

23
in quietness and trust is your strength.
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,

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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 1:1–5

SUNDAY
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word JUNE

24
was with God, and the Word was God.
John 1:1

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
A.D., 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!

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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 1:5–22

MONDAY
JUNE And now you will be silent and not able

25
to speak until the day this happens.
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

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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 20:20–26

TUESDAY
Astonished by his answer, JUNE

26
they became silent.
Luke 20:26

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).

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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).

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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 53:7–12

THURSDAY
As a sheep before its shearers is silent, JUNE

28
so he did not open his mouth.
Isaiah 53:7

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.”

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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

29
silence in heaven for about half an hour.
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?

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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

30
her salvation like a blazing torch.
Isaiah 62:1

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).

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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).

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 37

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