In a world that’s growing darker, a trend seems to be sweeping over our nation. Although its existence has been around since the beginning of time, it seems to be more prevalent than ever as we approach the final days before our Savior’s return. It would seem, because we all have sinned and fall short, we all may have fallen into this trend at some point in our lives. It’s something that can keep us from sharing truth, spreading love, and standing for what’s right. It’s the sin of silence, and it stretches in both directions.
The sin of silence affects both light and dark in this world. There are those who would attempt to silence all things good and moral, and there are those who are good and moral who keep themselves silent.
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 7 says, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: … a time to be silent and a time to speak.”
Although there is a time for everything, as stated in the Bible, we are never called to a time of silence when it comes to the things that God is placing on our hearts to do. We’re never to cower and allow other voices to trump righteousness, God’s commandments, and God’s ways. We’re never to stand by and allow evil to flourish and righteousness to take a back seat.
As believers, we belong to God’s army and, therefore, need to fight for justice, righteousness and what God deems good and moral. As long as we have breath, we’re never to be silenced. We’re never to stop praying, petitioning, spreading truth, or standing for what’s right. We’re never to accept the things in this world that God deems unacceptable, and we’re never to morph into a version of what the world deems acceptable…ever!
The Bible clearly states we’re to shine a light in the darkness and to be in the world, but not of the world.
Matthew 5:16 “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
1 John 2:16-17 “For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.”
Matthew 7:13-14 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”
To stay silent when God calls us to speak out is disobedient. We’re called to care, to act and to make a difference. God has us here, right now, and expects us to stand for Him even if we’re the only ones standing.
Thomas Jefferson once profoundly said, “All tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent.” How true!
Another trend that’s crept in, which has become rampant in our society, is the idea of “political correctness.” Being “PC” may sound good to many, but it seems to be a tool that doesn’t connect us, but rather divides us. Political correctness has been used as a way to silence opposing views. Enemies of God have used it to blur the lines, push ungodly agendas, belittle believers, and to attempt to push God out of the public square.
This trend is used often by those who place themselves on pedestals…those who deem themselves the “elite” in society. It is used by Hollywood producers, actors, and directors. It’s rampant among our government and its pool of politicians. It’s evident in the media, and sadly has even crept its ugly head into what’s to be the most sacred of places, the church body.
“Political Correctness” is a trend that keeps many silent. It seems evident that it’s been an effective tool in silencing, as many now fear to speak out. Some may be fearful for their reputations, so they keep quiet. Others may fear being unfairly labeled, so they keep their thoughts to themselves. “Political Correctness” steals from us. It’s what is helping to destroy our nation, bit by bit, and its effects reach far and wide.
Political Correctness is not the only tool used to silence. Progressivism is another. To many, progressivism defines what’s “antiquated” and what’s “acceptable” in the present day. Again, many of the elite in powerful positions use “progressivism” to define what is moral in their own minds and then relentlessly push that agenda in both subtle and overt ways.
Progressivism can take on a life of its own. Yet, it can’t change the truth about truth. If God has spoken against something, some act, etc., His word is the final say…always.
Malachi 3:6-7 reminds us of this truth: “I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed. Ever since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty.”
One day, maybe soon, we all will stand before the God of all creation and will be accountable for every action and belief we held while here on earth. Progressivism and political correctness will not have a say then.
1 John 4:2-3 “This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.”
As believers, we may silence ourselves by not sharing the Good News with others, or render ourselves ineffective by not taking action and standing to defend those who are the most innocent among us. Our non-existent quiet time may render our witness silent as we chase after worldly things that will all too soon fade away. These, among many things, can silence us, leaving our witness and our walk ineffective.
God calls us to speak out, stand up, and stand out. Let’s fight the good fight of faith that Paul spoke so passionately about:
1 Timothy 6:12: “Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.”
2 Timothy 4:7-8 states: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”
As you enter 2018, choose to take a stand and not be silent. Pray for boldness, discernment, wisdom, and for your heart to be stirred. Cling to God’s commands. Decide to be in the world, but not of the world. Allow God to work in you and use you for His great glory.
And let your heart be encouraged and at peace! You are not alone in God’s army. He cares for YOU and He has overcome all things!
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).