May 15, 2025

Speak Up

Daily Devotional2 Minutes

Is God asking you to speak up to someone or about something in particular? Learn to be courageous like Elihu.

“Behold, my belly is like unvented wine, like new wineskins, it is about to burst. Let me speak so that I may get relief; let me open my lips and answer.”Job 32:19–20 NASB

Elihu appears at the end of the dialogue between Job and his three friends. He has been the subject of many debates among scholars, but his presence in Job’s story offers many insights.

He demonstrated that God could speak through anyone. At a time when young people were not encouraged to speak, this young man felt compelled to share what God had shown him, and he had the courage to speak out.

Also noteworthy about Elihu was his sense that he couldn’t withhold the words in his heart, for he was “about to burst.” Unable to contain himself, he felt it necessary to speak in order to “get relief.” Even though he realized others might reject his words simply because of his youth and lack of experience, he felt compelled to act.

This is a picture of how we can experience God speaking to us as well. When He wants us to say or do something, He may cause us to sense this kind of pressure or burden—an urge we cannot contain, even in circumstances where we naturally might want to remain silent.

Is God speaking to you today? Is He leading you to do or say something? Be sensitive to His leading. He can speak through anyone, at any time—even through you! Ask Him for discernment, so you can learn to speak when He wants you to speak and obey when He wants you to act.

Reflection Question: Compose a prayer asking the Lord for discernment in your life.

Prayer
Holy Spirit, give me a greater sensitivity to Your work. I am ready to hear and obey Your words to me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Today's Bible Reading
Job 32


Prayer
Holy Spirit, give me a greater sensitivity to Your work. I am ready to hear and obey Your words to me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Today's Bible Reading
Job 32