Have you ever been so sick that you literally couldn’t speak? It could be a severe cold, flu, or, in my case, allergies. Well, I am just now coming out of a pretty bad bout of it. We’ve been without rain for five years out here in CA, but now, with consequences. pollen is rampant, causing many to suffer.
It was hard, since giving my guide dog commands was difficult, barely a whisper. And, he knew something was wrong with Mom. He’d whine, and stick closer to me than ever. I know he missed our mall walks with hubby, too.
Despite it all, I found myself really listening to the songs on the Christian station every morning. They were reminding me that God was still in control, and he had a purpose in all this. I found myself praying even singing in my spirit. At times, I had a joy I couldn’t contain. When I returned to church on Sunday, I still had no singing voice. I don’t think I’ve ever had a time when I didn’t praise Him with my voice, except many years ago, when I was angry, and refused to do so.
Jesus, too, had times when He didn’t speak, either. Remember when He was before the Sanhedrin, for one of his mock trials? To Pilate He didn’t offer an explanation for His actions after being accused, Mark 15: 3-5 (NIV) ” The chief priests accused him of many things. So again Pilate asked him, ‘Aren’t you going to answer? See how many things they are accusing you of.’ But Jesus still made no reply, and Pilate was amazed”.”
“His credentials as God’s only Son already had been demonstrated in His miracles, healing, and compassion for the “least of these.”’ Matt. 25: 40 KJV The chief priests and scribes knew full well of Jesus attributes, but refused to believe.
Isaiah asserts in Isaiah 53: 7, ( NIV) “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 its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.”
I’m still a bit hoarse as I write this, and I’m yearning to sing again. Perhaps He is healing my heart, as well. I know my mouth gets me into trouble at times. I say things I shouldn’t, and have to come before Him in confession daily. I want to look briefly this week at silence in the Scriptures, and its implication to us as believers.
Lord, despite not being able to sing right now, You know I’m praising You, with the Holy Spirit’s help. Give me patience and wisdom, as I wait on Your timing. Forgive me when I say words not pleasing to You. May this be a reminder how important our voices are to You. I love You. In Your Precious Name, I pray.
NOTE: I originally wrote this during the first part of May. It’s now August, and my singing voice did return. Thank You, Lord! Amen!