Like a lamb led to the slaughter and like a sheep silent before her shearers, he did not open his mouth. —Isaiah 53:7
Of all the things we learn from what Jesus said throughout His earthly ministry, we learn one of our greatest lessons from what He didn’t say. Jesus’ self-defense throughout each of His trials was marked most notably by His silence.
I’m convinced Jesus’ silence wasn’t motivated by mere stoicism. I believe it came from His sense of absolute, composed surrender to the Father’s will.
Like Jesus, we wouldn’t be so prone to fire back at those who malign us if we had confidence that God was still on His throne. We wouldn’t raise an accusing finger toward the Father if we had already chosen a settled confidence in His will.
There are, of course, times when it’s appropriate to speak up in the face of injustice and opposition. But when you’re secure in who you are, in whose you are, and in His wisdom, goodness, and love, you don’t have to talk so much. You can let your own silence reflect the heart and spirit of Jesus.
Make it Personal
Are you facing a situation where your natural inclination is to defend yourself? Ask the Holy Spirit to rein in your heart and tongue.