Joel Osteen Daily Devotional 21 July 2024 – Answer Not a Word

Today’s Scripture

But He answered him not one word, so that the governor marveled greatly. – Matthew 27:14, NKJV

Today’s Word

Jesus went around doing good, healing people, and feeding the hungry, yet people ridiculed Him, slandered Him, told lies about Him. The religious leaders said, “He’s from the devil. That’s how He can heal people.” Jesus couldn’t have been any more loving, kind, and generous, but certain people were determined to misunderstand Him, mischaracterize Him, and misjudge Him.

What did Jesus do? Spend all His energy trying to straighten them out and prove to them who He was? No. He answered them not a word. He didn’t waste His time trying to convince people to be for Him who were never going to be for Him. You would think with all the negative talk, with all the rumors, slander, and lies, He would have missed His purpose.

But people don’t control your destiny. They can defame, denounce, and mischaracterize you, but your reputation is in God’s hands. What they say cannot stop your purpose. Don’t make the mistake of engaging in battles you’re not supposed to engage in. Do as Jesus did and answer them not a word. Don’t pay any attention.

Prayer For Today

“Father, thank You that Jesus didn’t worry about His reputation and how much and how often He was disrespected. Thank You for His example that I don’t have to waste my time and energies trying to prove who I am or change what others think of me. I will not answer them a word. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

About Joel Osteen
Raised in Houston, Texas, with a loving family of seven and world-renowned parents in full-time ministry, Joel Osteen never imagined that he would follow so closely in his father’s footsteps. As a young man, his training and interests were behind the scenes in television production, though he was close to his father in ministry.