Subscription Lists
Sufficient Grace
by Shelly Weiss
I have a big decision to make. As I referenced yesterday, I thought I was going the right path, but input from ‘the world’ (including fellow Christians) has my mind reeling. My desire is to simply do the will of God, even if it is the hard way, because I BELIEVE the Lord will give me everything needed to do His will. The dilemma is discerning His will.
The question is should I speak up on an issue or keep quiet. While I can justify (with individual verses) why I should go either path, it is dangerous to make decisions based on single verses. (Andy Stanley gives example of Judas hanging himself, and the reader thinking he should hang himself.)
Here are key verses I’ve ‘felt’ through this process:
The very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you have been completely defeated already. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated? -1 Corinthians 6:7
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18
*** Convinced to not cause waves, just trust in God’s ultimate justice.
Then the ‘wave’ came from elsewhere… I went back to Scripture:
Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy. Proverbs 31:8,9
***This with knowing Christians should promote justice, I was convinced I needed to speak up (since the issue was not put to rest as I thought).
***Then counsel from men I admire presented me with a different perspective, convincing me I needed to wait until my situation changes… deal with immediate needs first.
***This morning, the Spirit led me to Esther, who had to speak up to promote justice, even if it would kill her.
Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my maids will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish. Esther 4:16
which led to Isaiah 50:4; 51:16-
The Sovereign LORD has given me an instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught. 16 I have put my words in your mouth and covered you with the shadow of my hand I who set the heavens in place, who laid the foundations of the earth, and who say to Zion, 'You are my people.' "
*** Okay, so I need to speak up… as my Bible commentary says:
We should have the same commitment to do what is right despite the possible consequences. Do you try to save yourself by remaining silent rather than standing up for what is right? Decide to do what God wants, and trust him for the outcome.
Speak up it is… wait a minute, what about Jesus remaining silent when asked to defend Himself?
He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. Isaiah 53:7
Oh, brother! Speaking of ‘brother’, I will be discussing this with my spiritual brother today to get his perspective… to be continued.
Receive the newest devotional each week in your inbox by joining the "Sufficient Grace" subscription list. Enter your email address below, click "Go!" and we will send you a confirmation email. Follow the instructions in the email to confirm your addition to this list.