Devotion:
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Read Luke 23:6-25.
When I read this passage, I am always struck by how Jesus stood silently, not giving a response to his accusers. He was put on trial first before Pilate, then to Herod who mocked Him and sent Him back to Pilate, who could not find any wrong in Him. Pilate, trying to appease the crowd, had Jesus flogged and whipped but that did not quell the crowd. So, Pilate gave in to the pressure and released a criminal and executed an innocent man.
The whole time, Jesus stood silently, not saying a word to defend Himself. I think about how quickly I jump to defend myself especially when I feel backed into a corner. If anyone was backed into a corner it was Jesus. False accusations flew all around Him, and yet He just stood his ground and later prayed forgiveness for those who would take his life. Jesus knew this was His time. He knew He was the only one who could set the world free, but in order to do that, He had to endure all this suffering.
Personal Worship Option:
When you are tempted to defend yourself or justify your actions, pray for God to give you wisdom and ask Him if this might be the time to practice the discipline of silence.
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