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Crawford Bible Commentary – Daily Devotional
📖 Day 120: “Break the Silence”
Acts 18:9–10
“One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision and said, ‘Don’t be afraid! Speak out and don’t be silent, (10) for I am with you, and no one will attack or harm you, because many people in this city belong to Me.’”

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💬 Explanation:
There comes a moment in every believer’s life when God whispers the same words He spoke to Paul—“Don’t be silent.” The gospel was never meant to be hidden behind fear or comfort. Paul was facing resistance and threats in Corinth, but the Lord reminded him that silence was not an option. The world still needs the voice of truth, and that voice comes through God’s people.

To “break the silence” means to speak when fear says to stay quiet—to proclaim hope when the world is full of despair. It’s refusing to let shame, intimidation, or apathy muzzle your faith. Silence may feel safe, but it robs the world of the truth it desperately needs. When you speak God’s Word with boldness, you echo heaven’s voice on earth.

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🔍 Greek and Hebrew Word Study:

• Greek: “Laleō” (λαλέω) – To speak, proclaim, or utter words with purpose and conviction.

• Greek: “Phobeō” (φοβέω) – To fear, shrink back, or be intimidated.

• Hebrew: “Dabar” (דָּבַר) – To speak with authority; to declare God’s message.

• Greek: “Parrēsia” (παρρησία) – Boldness, confidence, fearless speech inspired by the Spirit.

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🔁 Cross References:

• Jeremiah 1:7–8 – “But the Lord said to me, ‘Don’t say, “I’m too young.” You must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you. (8) Don’t be afraid of anyone, for I am with you and will protect you. I, the Lord, have spoken!’”

• Matthew 10:27 – “What I tell you in the dark, speak in the light. What I whisper to you in private, shout from the rooftops for everyone to hear.”

• Romans 1:16 – “I am not ashamed of the Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile.”

• 2 Timothy 1:7–8 – “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-control. (8) So don’t be ashamed to tell others about our Lord. And don’t be afraid to share in suffering for Him. Rely on the power that God gives you.”

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❓ Questions and Answers:
Q: Why did God tell Paul not to be silent?
A: Because many in Corinth still needed to hear the gospel, and fear was trying to silence him.

Q: What silences believers today?
A: Fear of rejection, social pressure, or doubt about being effective.

Q: How can we “break the silence” in our lives?
A: By sharing our testimony, speaking Scripture, and standing for truth even when it’s unpopular.

Q: What promise does God give to those who speak boldly?
A: His presence, His protection, and His power.

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📘 Summary:
Breaking the silence means courageously proclaiming the truth of Jesus, no matter the cost. The gospel advances when God’s people refuse to stay quiet.

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🔑 Key Lesson:
Silence is the enemy of truth. Speak up—God’s presence gives you the courage to break it.

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🧭 Application:
Ask yourself: Where have I been silent when I should have spoken? This week, take a stand. Encourage someone, share your faith, or speak hope into a hopeless situation. Let the voice of Christ flow through you.

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🙏 Prayer:
Lord, give me the courage to break the silence. When fear tries to hold my tongue, fill me with Your boldness. Help me to speak Your truth in love and to shine Your light in dark places. Let my voice carry the sound of heaven. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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