GOD’S ADVOCATES BREAKING SILENCE – Charles Spurgeon
GOD’S ADVOCATES BREAKING SILENCE
Suffer me a little, and I will show you that I have yet to speak on God’s behalf.
Job 36:2
Introduction: Elihu’s Courageous Stand
Elihu was sufficiently severe with Job, but this arose from his honest conviction that Job had spoken amiss, and we cannot blame him for it. In fact, we can admire the style of his address. There is a courtesy in Elihu’s words, “Suffer me a little,” showing that he had consideration for his audience. It’s a reminder to us as preachers and teachers that, at times, our people suffer under our words, and we should be mindful of their weariness. We might occasionally apologize and say, “Suffer me a little,” recognizing the challenge in listening for long periods.
Admiring Elihu’s Brevity and Prudence
Elihu also attempts brevity, though his speech extends over two more chapters. Yet his intention to keep his address short, marked by his words, “Suffer me a little,” demonstrates a desire to respect his audience’s time. In contrast, some preachers, with their many divisions and repeated “Finally” statements, cause much greater weariness than necessary. It is important, when we have something worthwhile to say, to use as few words as possible. Brevity is not only the soul of wit, but also a more effective method of reaching the heart. If our sermons are full of rich content, it is better that people leave longing for more than loathing the experience.
We can learn from Elihu’s prudence in dividing his discourse into manageable portions. He speaks in segments, taking pauses throughout his address. This allows his audience to breathe and reflect, a wise tactic to avoid overwhelming listeners. In spiritual teaching, we too should learn to provide “precept upon precept, line upon line” rather than overwhelming others with too much information at once. Elihu’s wisdom in pacing his speech teaches us to consider the capacity of our listeners and avoid undoing our message by overloading them with too much at once.
The Necessity of Speaking on God’s Behalf
Elihu’s words reflect a deep sense of responsibility and urgency. He says, “I have yet to speak on God’s behalf.” He felt a pressing need to speak on behalf of God, compelled both by duty and by impulse. He had listened in silence for a while, but after hearing the speeches of Job and his three friends, Elihu felt moved to speak. His heart swelled within him, and he declares that it was as if he were a bottle ready to burst. His speech was not mere rhetoric; it was born from necessity, from a heart full of truth that could not be contained.
This sense of necessity in speaking for God is powerful. Those who speak for God must do so with the same urgency, as if they are pouring forth the truth that cannot be kept in. Elihu’s speech is driven by a conscious sense of his duty to advocate for God. There is nothing like speaking out of necessity, when the truth compels us to do so. When we speak on God’s behalf, it is with an earnestness and readiness that comes from being moved by the Spirit of God. Elihu’s words teach us that we, too, must be compelled to speak when the truth burns within us, and we must do so with earnestness, knowing that we are advocates for the King of kings.
The Privilege of Advocating for God
Elihu clearly felt that speaking on God’s behalf was a great honor, as we should too. To speak for God is not a trivial task. It is no light thing to represent the Creator of the universe, and those who speak for Him must do so with a sense of awe and reverence. Elihu declares, “I will fetch my knowledge from afar and will ascribe righteousness to my Maker.” He is mindful of the weight of his words, understanding that when advocating for God, every word must be carefully chosen. We, too, must approach speaking on God’s behalf with great solemnity, acknowledging the honor it is to serve as His spokesperson.
Speaking on God’s behalf is not only a responsibility but also a joy. Elihu exclaims, “I will speak, that I may be refreshed.” There is a deep joy in proclaiming the greatness of God. Just as a bird delights in singing, so should we delight in speaking about the Lord. This joy comes from being able to testify of God’s goodness and love. When we speak for God, we are not just fulfilling an obligation, but also sharing in the joy of bearing witness to His truth.
It is a great privilege to have the opportunity to speak on God’s behalf, and Elihu’s words remind us of the deep joy that comes with it. For those who have experienced the Lord’s love, there is an overwhelming urge to share it with others. This is a natural outpouring of a heart filled with gratitude and love for the Savior.
The Privilege and Duty to Speak for God
In our text, we are reminded that speaking for God is both a privilege and a duty. We are the ones chosen to speak on behalf of the Creator of the universe, and it is a task that requires reverence and care. Our speech, as humans, is a gift that should be used for God’s glory. As the sole articulate beings in creation, we are entrusted with the responsibility of representing God and His truth to the world.
The theme of speaking on God’s behalf is exalted and worthy of our utmost efforts. It is a theme that demands our best words and our highest respect. It is not enough to simply speak about God; we must speak on His behalf, defending His character, His righteousness, and His gospel. When we advocate for God, we are not only representing His truth, but we are also declaring His sovereignty and glory.
Reflecting on the Need for Advocates of God
We must not forget that there is a pressing need for advocates of God. The world is full of those who deny His truth, ignore His sovereignty, and misunderstand His justice. Yet, there is also a growing need for those who will speak up for God and advocate for His cause. As Elihu speaks boldly on behalf of God, we too must rise to the occasion and speak on His behalf. There are many preachers and teachers, but how many truly speak on behalf of God, upholding His majesty and sovereignty?
The Personal Call to Speak for God
Finally, Elihu’s words are a personal call for each of us to speak on God’s behalf. “I have yet to speak” is a call that resonates deeply within the heart of every believer. If you have been silent for too long, now is the time to speak. If you have hesitated or been afraid, know that God has called you to be His advocate. It is a personal call to each one of us to speak boldly for God, no matter our limitations or fears.
Even if we feel inadequate or unworthy, we are still called to speak for God. Elihu felt unqualified and trembled as he spoke, yet he did not hold back. Similarly, we may feel inadequate, but we must trust in God’s strength and His empowerment. When God opens our mouths and fills our hearts with His truth, we can speak with confidence, knowing that we are speaking on behalf of the King of kings.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
Let us heed Elihu’s call and speak on God’s behalf with courage, reverence, and joy. It is a privilege and a duty that we must take seriously. We must not allow silence to continue when the truth of God needs to be proclaimed. Whether we are young or old, eloquent or unpolished, we are called to speak for God. May we be faithful in our calling and proclaim His truth to the world with boldness, clarity, and love. Let us be His advocates, representing His glory and truth wherever we go.
How I Watched for the Day to Speak on God’s Behalf
Introduction: A Long-Awaited Opportunity
How I watched those weary weeks, waiting for the day when my tongue would once again express my thoughts! How glad I was as that day drew near! Have you been shut up, brother, unable to come forth? Then cheer yourself and look for the day when you will say, “I have yet to speak on God’s behalf.” This thought often arises after times of great deliverance. For instance, David had been seized by the Philistines and brought before King Abimelech, narrowly escaping by feigning madness. As soon as he was safe, he declared, “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth” (Psalm 34:1). And in his grateful song, he calls, “Come, you children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the Lord.” After being raised from deep distress, we should never fail to say, “I have yet to speak on God’s behalf.”
The Joy of Speaking on God’s Behalf After Forgiveness
The same is true if you have been conscious of a grave fault and have received forgiveness. Then, too, you have yet to speak on God’s behalf. You should rejoice in this opportunity, as it will serve as a pledge of your forgiveness. Poor Peter, who had denied his Master, might have been tempted to remain silent for the rest of his life. But when he remembered that the Lord had said, “When you are converted, strengthen your brethren,” it must have cheered him. By the Sea of Galilee, in loving tones, the Lord said, “Feed My sheep.” Do you wonder that on the day of Pentecost, Peter rejoiced and thought to himself, “I have yet to speak on God’s behalf! Even I, who once denied Him, am allowed to be His advocate and proclaim His grace”? Beloved, if any of you have been disappointed in your Christian work and feel cast down, I encourage you to adopt my motto: “I have yet to speak on God’s behalf.”
Overcoming Discouragement and Silence
Have you ever fallen into the condition of the prophet Jeremiah, who once said, “I will not make mention of Him, nor speak any more in His name”? Have you been despised, defamed, laughed at, and rejected? Do you feel you have done no good and that you are unfit for service? If you cry, “I will speak no more in the name of the Lord,” mark my words—you will not remain silent for long. As Jeremiah discovered, “His word was in my heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay.” You will soon feel compelled to speak again, and once more, you will declare, “I have yet to speak in the name of the Lord.”
The Necessity of Speaking After Failure
Perhaps, like Jonah, you have run away from the Lord’s service and only now have escaped the depths, bearing the salt-sea smell. What then? The first thing you must do, almost before brushing yourself off, is to hasten to Nineveh and deliver your Lord’s message. You have yet to speak on God’s behalf. Even though you once refused, you will be brought to speak His words. Go boldly with the message in your heart: “Salvation is of the Lord.” Let this truth be on your tongue as you speak to those in need.
The Seasonable Call to Speak on God’s Behalf
This call to speak on God’s behalf is seasonably applicable to many of us here. Though I cannot discern the exact condition of each heart, I suspect there are strong reasons why each one might say, “I have yet to speak on God’s behalf.” It may be that some of you are waiting for the right time, or feeling hesitant due to past failures or challenges. Yet, God’s call to speak remains, and we must heed it with urgency.
Speaking on behalf of God is a solemn and difficult duty, and therefore, it deserves our best possible preparations. Consider the young barrister tasked with advocating for a queen whose character had been questioned. I can imagine the late nights and early mornings spent studying his brief and preparing himself to plead her case. He must have stood with great trepidation in the Hall at Westminster, knowing the weight of his responsibility. Similarly, when we speak for God, we should not rush into it carelessly. To speak for God requires preparation, earnestness, and thoughtfulness.
We should never offer God what costs us nothing. Whether we are preaching, teaching, or sharing the gospel in any setting, we should prepare our hearts and minds. When standing before others to speak for God, we should say to ourselves, “I have yet to speak on God’s behalf, and I will do so with my utmost ability.” This preparation is not just about words; it is about an attitude of reverence and readiness to speak with the authority and power of God’s Spirit.
The Urgency of Zeal in Speaking for God
If we speak for God, we must do so with zeal and earnestness. A cold, half-hearted advocacy of God’s cause is almost as damaging as an attack on it. To speak for God without passion, without fire, is unworthy of the message we carry. Even when speaking to just one person, let us throw ourselves into every word, with love and fervor. At the same time, we must be ready and eager to seize every opportunity to speak for God. Whether it is in the workplace, at home, or in the public square, we must be prepared to speak His truth at any moment.
Ways to Speak on God’s Behalf
Now, let us consider how we can speak on God’s behalf. One powerful way is by manifesting holiness in our daily lives. Our actions, our words, and our conduct should all speak of God’s goodness and truth. As a master to his servants, a mistress to her domestics, or a merchant in business, we should speak on God’s behalf by living in a way that reflects His character. Our lives should be a witness to those around us, demonstrating what it means to follow Christ.
Instruction: Teaching and Edifying Others
We are also called to speak on God’s behalf by giving instruction. We live in a time when instruction in the things of God is desperately needed. Many people may hear exhortations, but fewer are being edified. Whether in Sunday school, conversations with friends, or street evangelism, we should seek to make known the name and attributes of God. We must speak of His perfect righteousness, His gospel’s free and full grace, His providence, and His sovereignty. It is through this instruction that we bring others to a true knowledge of God.
Personal Testimony: Bearing Witness to God’s Work in Our Lives
Another way we speak on God’s behalf is by sharing our personal testimony. Tell others about the work God has done in your life. Share your sense of sin and the joy of forgiveness, the power of prayer, the reality of faith, and God’s faithfulness to His promises. We are often afraid to speak of ourselves, thinking it might seem egotistical. But Paul was not ashamed to speak of his own experiences, and neither should we. It is through our personal stories that others can see the living power of God’s grace.
Contending for the Faith
Sometimes speaking on God’s behalf means engaging in controversy. We must contend for the faith, as many have before us. It is not enough to quietly hold our beliefs; we must stand firm against error. Just as Martin Luther did not remain silent, we must not let error stand unchallenged. Speaking boldly for God’s truth, defending it with courage and conviction, is an essential part of our calling.
Pleading with Sinners: The Call to Repentance
Finally, speaking on God’s behalf means pleading with sinners. We must urge them to repent, reminding them of God’s justice and mercy. We must call them to recognize God’s sovereignty and submit to His grace. Each one of us can do this in our own way, whether through personal conversations or more public evangelism. As we do so, let us continue to speak with the urgency and love of Christ.
Conclusion: The Time to Speak is Now
As we consider how to speak on God’s behalf, let us also remember that the time to speak is now. Whether you are a new convert, a seasoned believer, or someone who has been discouraged in the past, the call to speak for God is for all of us. We have the privilege of being His advocates, and we must rise to the occasion with boldness and love. Let us say with one voice, “I have yet to speak on God’s behalf,” and let us do so with all our hearts, for His glory and the good of His kingdom.