Silence (Hab 2:20)

This is either the third verse of the fifth woe (parallelism: 5 woes, 3 verses each) or it is the conclusion to Habakkuk 2:6-19.

1. The possibility of silence. We live in a loud, distracting, harrassed world. God says, "Be silent." There is a time for rejoicing (Psa 97:1; Hab 3:18), a time for trembling (Psa 99:1; Hab 3:16) and a time for silence (Eccl 3:7b; Rev 8:1). Silence is possible, since it is commanded.
2. The provocation of silence. Why should you be silent? "The Lord" -- the Creator, Covenant-Keeper, Sustainer -- "is in His holy temple." He is real, He is alive, He is holy. He is at home -- in heaven and in your heart (1 Cor 3:16; 6:19; Col 1:27). Unlike the dead and dumb idols, God lives and speaks (Gen 1:1-3; Heb 1:1-2; Psa 29:3-9).
3. The power of silence. It is a high, appropriate form of worship. Silence is a source of strength and renewal (Isa 30:15).