For with the heart it is believed for righteousness, and with the mouth it is confessed for salvation. Romans 10:10, TLV

Heart and Mouth at Their Best!. Chapter 10 of Romans is part of Paul’s fascinating insights into the Jewish and non-Jewish perspective. Paul was one of the most “Orthodox” of Jewish believers in Jesus. As most know, he persecuted the Jewish believers and played some role in Stephen’s stoning (Acts 7:58). Yet, upon his dramatic introduction to his Messiah (Acts 9:1-17) GOD sends him to the most pagan of pagans and the oppressors of Israel, Rome.

Every once in a while, he mentions his Jewish people — his own flesh and blood — especially in chapters 9-11. His longing for his people’s salvation is so clearly evident, sometimes it is heartbreaking.

But I am speaking to you who are Gentiles. Insofar as I am an emissary to the Gentiles, I spotlight my ministry if somehow I might provoke to jealousy my own flesh and blood and save some of them. (Romans 11:13-14, TLV)

and

For I would pray that I myself were cursed, banished from Messiah for the sake of my people—my own flesh and blood … (Acts 9:3, TLV)

So, today’s verse is within this context. Paul writes of the importance of not just making a heart decision, “Yes, I believe that Yeshua is the Messiah and LORD and was resurrected” but to proclaim it. To make a stand for their faith. Not just as a title or label, but to demonstrate it. One wonders if he hoped those “closet” Jewish believers would proclaim their faith publicly — especially among the Jewish leadership.

For us today, does that mean wearing a giant cross or saying, “Praise the LORD” or “Baruch HaShem” [Bless His Name] at the drop of a hat? Not necessarily. It does mean our behavior should be different. Noticeably different. Because light shines brightest in the darkness.

What does that mean practically? We have integrity, good will, humbleness, joy — albeit quiet joy, at times — forgiveness, grace, mercy, and wisdom. To step away or not participate in inappropriate conversations or cursing. If we’re doing it honestly, then our fruit will either produce hunger or revulsion, but it should produce some reaction.

When asked, as inevitably happens, “why are you so different?” then the question can be answered that we believe in the resurrected Jesus, who redeemed us, and are now children of the Creator of the Universe.

Well, that might be a little over the top. If we pay attention, the Holy Spirit will show us what the right words are for that situation. Our proclamation of who Yeshua is, is for His glory and evidence of our salvation. And that’s our heart and mouth at their best!

PS I love your thoughts and comments. Please, leave them below in the comment section. I don’t always see them on social media.