You will be given what to say

You will be given what to say

Scripture:

Be on your guard; you will be handed over to the local councils and be flogged in the synagogues. On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. Matthew 10:17-20

Observation:

Continuing His instruction to the disciples, Lord Jesus then warns them to be on guard for they will be handed over to local councils and beaten up in the synagogues. Because of their allegiance to Jesus, they will be brought before governors and kings and the Gentiles, referring to authorities such as the Romans who were not Jews. In expecting these things, Jesus warns them not to worry about what they are to say but to depend on the Holy Spirit to give them the courage to say the right words. The Holy Spirit here is referred to as the Spirit of your Father, and in other places, the Spirit of Jesus. As the Son only does what the Father is doing, and the Spirit only tells what He hears, it is the same Spirit who hears from the Father, or is sent by the Son. He is the Spirit of wisdom that continues to teach us what to say today even, for those who will look to Him for help. He is our Helper, our Counselor, our Teacher our Comforter and so much more. What numerous roles He plays in our lives.

Roman empire

In any case, as Christians, we need to be ready and not surprised if persecution happens to us. That is part of “standing on guard” as Jesus instructed. And no matter what happens, we need to remember that we are not alone for we have a God who will never leave us nor forsake us. His Spirit He will send to us to give us what to say at that time.

Application:

Meditate on the Holy Spirit, and His role of counseling, teaching and encouraging all who believe in Jesus. His activity in giving us what to say, is not only for times of persecution, but also extends to our daily lives and conversations with others. Our part is to have faith in believing that this is true, and so it will become real to us.

Regarding persecution, spend some solemn moments in reflection, to consider whether we would be ready to face such difficulties. Pray to God for courage and wisdom should we be appointed to face such trials. Be at peace in our hearts that the Lord will send His Spirit to help us even in such times.

Prayer:

Praise You, Father in Heaven, for giving us Your Holy Spirit, freely and generously to us, to help us, to counsel us, to guide us in our everyday lives. Give us the faith and the inclining ear to hear what the Spirit may say to us, and even to let Him speak through us at opportune times.

We pray too, O Lord, for wisdom and courage, even as we look to the future. Should we be appointed for persecution, Lord, we pray for Your presence to be with us through every trial. Let You Spirit dwell deeply in our hearts, giving us peace and strength. Praise You, Heavenly Lord. In Jesus name, Amen.