Great Restraint

Isa 36:21 But they held their peace, and answered him not a word: for the king's commandment was, saying, Answer him not. (Also, see 37:15, etc. 37:36-38.)

The restraint of the people here is fantastic. Rabshakeh gave a very convincing speech to the people of Jerusalem, yet they were disciplined enough to refrain from responding in any fashion, by order of their king.

I just try to imagine any scenario in our society where 100% of the people are 100% obedient. Family, church, locale or nation, I just don't see it happening in 2010.

We tell our kids, "Obey right away, obeying could save your life!" And yet they still have their moments. We warn the church with tears to restrain themselves from carnal pleasures, yet some still foray into the ravages of sin. Our nation is so divided that the vast majority could never again see eye to eye on any issue.

Kudos to the people of Jerusalem for trusting their God-given leadership, even in the face of a cruel death at the hands of one of the most vicious despots of history.