The Silence Is Broken: Faith in Action
Faith and Obedience, Worship and Praise, Advent Devotions, Biblical Reflections, Zechariah and John the Baptist, God’s Timing and Providence John Nix Faith and Obedience, Worship and Praise, Advent Devotions, Biblical Reflections, Zechariah and John the Baptist, God’s Timing and Providence John Nix

The Silence Is Broken: Faith in Action

The room held its breath. The tablet bearing the words, “His name is John,” had stunned the gathered crowd. The statement was loud and clear but not a suggestion—it was an act of obedience. Suddenly, a miracle happened. Zechariah’s silence was broken. After nine months without speaking, his voice rang out strong and clear with unrestrained praise.

Zechariah had been silenced because of his doubt, but in the stillness, his faith had grown. Now, with his heart filled with faith and committed to God’s promises, he uses his first words to bless the Lord. The same God who closed his mouth had now opened it in response to his obedience. Naming the child John—as commanded by the angel Gabriel—marked a profound transformation in Zechariah. Faith and obedience had unlocked his freedom.

Read More
Obedience in Silence: Trusting God While Others Watch
Advent Devotionals, Faith and Obedience, Trusting God’s Plan John Nix Advent Devotionals, Faith and Obedience, Trusting God’s Plan John Nix

Obedience in Silence: Trusting God While Others Watch

It was the custom for a firstborn son to carry his father’s name or that of a close relative. It honored the family and carried forward its legacy. So when Elizabeth, with unwavering resolve, declared, “No; he shall be called John,” the room must have fallen silent.

Confused glances darted back and forth. Whispers rose like steam when you pull the lid off a boiling pot from the crowd. "None of your relatives is called by this name," someone protested (Luke 1:61). Why John? Why abandon tradition for something so unexpected?

Read More