9 One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision and told him, “Don’t be afraid! Speak out! Don’t be silent! 10 For I am with you, and no one will attack and harm you, for many people in this city belong to me.” 11 So Paul stayed there for the next year and a half, teaching the word of God. Acts 18:9-11 NLT
APPLICATION
Don't be afraid! Speak out! Use your God-given gifts to serve. In today's verse, the Lord speaks to Paul and tells him not to be silent. God wants Paul to speak and teach the word of God. In those times, it wasn't popular to follow Jesus or share His teachings. The early believers were harshly persecuted. Perhaps, God knew deep down that Paul was terrified to speak out.
Have you ever struggled with speaking God’s Word or being silent?
Should I Speak?
1. Check your motives (Are you speaking for God’s Will or your Will?)
2. Pray to God for guidance. Notice that God directed Paul to speak. Is God directing you to speak?
3. Trust God. God will always protect you.
If God is telling you to move, then move. Speak! Write! Sing! Dance! Do it all for the glory of God!
PRAYER
Dear God, thank you for your Word. Please give us your discernment on when to speak and when to remain silent. Help us to use your gifts to serve others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.