Have you ever had a time when you knew you were right but chose to keep silent? Not easy to do by any means. Our nature, our flesh, our culture wants to be right, wants to defend ourselves, wants to come out on top. Acting otherwise is so contrary to what comes naturally.
When you look at Christ’s example it is very challenging.
“But at last two false witnesses came forward and said, “This fellow said, ‘I am able to destroy the temple of God and to build it in three days.’” And the high priest arose and said to Him, “Do You answer nothing? What is it these men testify against You?” But Jesus kept silent.” Mt 26:60-62
Matthew 27:12, 14 “And while He was being accused by the chief priests and elders, He answered nothing. … But He answered him not one word.”
“He kept silent and answered nothing.” Mark 1:60
“If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross.” Mt. 27: 40; “He saved others; Himself He cannot save. If He is the King of Israel, let Him now come down from the cross, and we will believe Him.” Mt. 27:42 Jesus knew the truth. He was right. Yet, He remained silent.
I would imagine you are shaking your head right now, because as I imagine that setting, I can’t help but shake my head. Jesus was right but He was silent. What amazing Spirit-restraint.
First Peter 2:22-23 does not say Jesus kept silent but still He did not defend Himself. “Who committed no sin, Nor was deceit found in His mouth, who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously.”
So, here’s my thought for the day: Being right is not a sure sign that I should speak up. Sometimes we can be right but silent. Holy Spirit restraint.
Written by Diane Hunt: Diane Hunt serves on the board of America’s Keswick and is the Executive Director & CEO of Changed Choices, a Christian non-profit in North Carolina. She is also a biblical counselor and women’s event speaker. For more information about having Diane speak at your next event please contact her at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
