Do Not Hold Back A Word

Daily Reading: Jeremiah 26

Scripture Focus: Do not hold back a word. (Jeremiah 26.2)

Devotional Thought: While the authority and opportunity of the pulpit should never be used to call out individual people or deal with personal grievances, there are times God asks us to say something we know some people won’t like.

I recall one such Sunday.  The church was dealing with an emotionally volatile issue, and God led me to an Old Testament story that squarely addressed it.  Even though I tried to frame my words with the necessary tact and grace, I knew some present would not be able to hear me.  Because I treaded into sensitive turf and highlighted the elephant in the room, they would react with anger and indignation.  And, I feared they’d activate the gossip chain, calling their friends and saying, “Did you hear what Pastor John said this morning?” and then passing along a selectively revised version of my words.  Nevertheless, I believed God wanted me to do it.

In chapter 26, Jeremiah finds himself in a similar circumstance.  The Lord’s instruction to him was clear—“Do not omit … or hold back … or diminish a word.”  While Jeremiah undoubtedly tried to say it as graciously and courteously as possible, it was important he not edit … or amend … or in any way modify the message God had for the people.

One of the early lessons I learned as a preacher is that I’m not responsible for a congregational response.  I am, however, responsible for putting the truth out there and giving people an opportunity to respond.  What they do with it is between them and God.  But, God asks us, when it comes to declaring his truth, to not hold back a word.

John Whitsett

Prayer: Heavenly Father—sometimes you let us be priests and surround folks with your love and grace.  But, at those times you ask us to be prophetic, may we have the courage to not hold back a word.  In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 118.25-29

25 Save us, we pray, O Lord! O Lord, we pray, give us success!

26 Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! We bless you from the house of the Lord.

27 The Lord is God, and he has made his light to shine upon us. Bind the festal sacrifice with cords, up to the horns of the altar!

28 You are my God, and I will give thanks to you; you are my God; I will extol you.

29 Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!