A Norvell Note
October 10, 2022 – Vol. 26 No. 32
Keep Silent
The Lord is in his holy temple;
let all the earth be silent before him.
Keep silence, keep silence, keep silence before him.
You may have sung those words as a reminder that it is time for a worship service to begin, so quit talking in the foyer and find a seat. There may be a deeper meaning.
If you read Habakkuk, you will find the verse at the end of chapter 2. The book of Habakkuk examines injustice from the experience of a righteous person crying out to God for a remedy. God responds to the prophet: Be patient, observant, and steady in your faith, for my judgment will happen at an appointed time. God’s response allows Habakkuk to rejoice in God’s saving power—even while struggling with a question that every generation asks: Why is evil allowed to thrive? The answer is profound yet dramatic: Trust God because He is both powerful and just. (Faithlife Study Bible)
Singing those words reminded me that we are asking the same question today, why is evil allowed to thrive? Among the responses God suggests to the prophet is to remember that God is in His holy temple and keep silent. There’s more to the warning than just being quiet. It means to be calm and remember the Lord is still in His place. You can trust Him.
Those words are a good reminder for us.
When we hear about the injustice and chaos in our world, remember that the Lord is in His holy temple. Keep silence.
When we are confused and afraid, remember the Lord is in His holy temple, and keep silent.
When we are overwhelmed by fear and anxiety, remember the Lord is in His holy temple, and keep silent.
When loss and disappointment sadden you, remember the Lord is in His holy temple; keep silent.
It was helpful instruction for the prophet and wise instruction for us.
The Lord is in his holy temple;
let all the earth be silent before him.
Keep silence, keep silence, keep silence before him.
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