I’ve been following the S.O.A.P. method for writing my devotions for some time, but today I thought I’d make it more obvious…
SCRIPTURE:
“And immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, blessing God.” (Luke 1:64, ESV)
OBSERVATION:
In today’s New Testament reading from Luke, Zechariah was made mute by the Lord for doubting the message of the angel Gabriel regarding the miraculous birth of his son, John. For nine months, he remained silent until the day of John’s birth when God finally restored his speech. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Zechariah immediately used his voice to praise God and prophesy over his son.
Ironically, today’s Old Testament reading in Numbers tells a similar story involving a prophet, an angel, and an unexpected speaker. The Lord opened the mouth of Balaam’s donkey, enabling it to speak and warn Balaam of the angel standing in their path (Numbers 22:28). When Balaam finally saw the angel, he was commanded to speak only the words the Lord had given him (Numbers 22:35).
These accounts may seem unbelievable to some, but they remind us of God’s power over speech. As He asked Moses, “Who gave man his mouth?” (Exodus 4:11). The Lord can silence a doubting man or give voice to a speechless donkey. This truth calls us to be mindful of our own words. At times, it is better to remain silent, as Proverbs teaches: “A man of understanding remains silent” (Proverbs 11:12).
APPLICATION:
God has given us the ability to speak, but He also calls us to use our words wisely. Like Zechariah, we should use our voices to glorify God rather than express doubt. Like Balaam, we should speak only what aligns with God’s truth. And sometimes, wisdom calls us to remain silent rather than speak hastily. Today, let’s seek to use our words to bless, encourage, and honor God.
PRAYER:
Dear Father, thank You for Your Word today. Teach us when to speak and when to be silent. May our words glorify You and bring encouragement to others. Fill our mouths with Your truth today. In Jesus’ name, amen.