SUNDAY 26 June, 2016
A Time to Speak
Then Absalom said, “Now call Hushai the Archite also, and let us hear what he says too.” And when Hushai came to Absalom, Absalom spoke to him, saying, “Ahithophel has spoken in this manner. Shall we do as he says? If not, speak up.” - 2 Samuel 17:5-6
Absalom and the elders of Israel wanted to hear next from Hushai. As an experienced elder; would he agree with the counsel given by Ahithophel? If he did not agree, now was the perfect time to speak up. Here was the moment Hushai had waited for, an opportunity to give his counsel. Imagine, he was used by the Lord to speak up at the right place and time.
I have always surrounded myself with older seasoned men in the ministry––Chuck Smith, Dr. Duffield, Dr. Orr and Alan Redpath. All these godly men have invested their lives into younger pastors. I could tell they genuinely loved us; that is why I respected them. At retreats they had their own rooms, yet they would call me over to share and give me counsel. When they spoke, I listened!
These men were not perfect but they were known for their integrity and blamelessness. There was no sexual immortality or mishandling of any church finances. As a young pastor their advice helped me; especially for the future. I thank God for their wisdom and knowledge.
There is a time to speak; but when is that occasion? Look around you; can you not use God’s words of wisdom and the experience you have gained to pour into others? We should speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves (Proverbs 31:8). Then there may come a time when, like the Apostle Paul, you have to speak up on Christ’s behalf and not be ashamed of the gospel (Romans 1:16; Ephesians 6:19-20).
To everything there is a season…
A time to keep silence, and a time to speak.
~Ecclesiastes 3:1, 7~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!