Some days it’s just better to keep your mouth shut.

When we are worried, fearful, and full of anxiety, we are best served to not put these concerns into words. If we open our mouth, both us and those around us will hear our lack of faith, and may be drawn to join us too.

No, I’m not suggesting a mindless religion. Or never questioning things. But when God is with us, why do we fear? There is no fear in perfect love. Which will we listen to?

In this verse, the king of Assyria started threatening Hezekiah, king of Jerusalem. But Hezekiah already had a battle plan… silence. Listen to his enemy’s threats:

“What god of any nation has ever been able to save its people from my power? So what makes you think that the Lord can rescue Jerusalem from me?” But the people were silent and did not utter a word because Hezekiah had commanded them, “Do not answer him.” Isaiah 36:20-21 NLT

Sometimes it’s just best to not answer our fears. To not review them in our head. And especially not to broadcast them to others. Sometimes it’s just best to “be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)

Being still and silent can be direct acts of faith. It means we are standing on God’s promises of provisions, healing and empowerment. It means God has spoke, and we’ve decided to only listen to His voice. It takes courage and boldness to stand and not move.

It shows we trust God even when we can’t feel or see Him. Someday we’ll understand.

When our own fears try to derail our witness, let’s not listen to them. Instead, let’s remember we are filled with the Holy Spirit, and we are ambassadors of the King of the Universe!