Sent:  July 24, 2003

Subject:  Speak Up & Speak Out!

Good Morning Ethan & Emily:

We are told in Ecclesiastes that there is “a time to be quiet and a time to speak up” (Eccl. 3:7).

Perhaps one of the most important things we are to speak “up” about is our salvation.  It is my prayer that all of us will be bold in our witness and that we will look to Paul who declared:  “For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ.  It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes–Jews first and also Gentiles” (Romans 1:16).

A “public” expression of our faith is very important.  In fact, speaking verbally is one confirmation of our faith.  “For if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9).  And Jesus Himself also affirmed the importance of a “public” expression of our salvation experience and faith:  “If anyone acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will openly acknowledge that person before my Father in heaven” (Matt. 10:32).

Let us also resolve to be like David who was not ashamed to speak out for his God:  “I have told all your people about your justice.  I have not been afraid to speak out, as you, O Lord, well know.  I have not kept this good news hidden in my heart; I have talked about your faithfulness and saving power.  I have told everyone…of your unfailing love and faithfulness” (Ps. 40:9-10).

Letting others know about the Good News of Jesus Christ is not something to be quiet about…more than anything in all the world, this “good news” merits being heard.  Let us hasten…not to spread gossip and other secrets…but let us hasten to “speak up and out” about what Jesus has done for us!

I love you.  Have a wonderful day speaking “up” and “out”!

Daddy-O