When Silence Is Not an Option: Shouting God’s Truth in Uncertain Times. A Message That Cannot Be Contained

By Rob Henson, CFRE

Have you ever had something so important to say that you couldn’t hold it in? Some truths are so powerful, so urgent, that they demand to be proclaimed—regardless of circumstances. In the Gospel of Luke, we see a striking example of this when the Pharisees try to silence Jesus’ disciples. Jesus responds, “I tell you, if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out” (Luke 19:40). The Good News was so transformative that even creation itself would declare it if humanity refused.

Today, in a world of economic instability, political turmoil, and social unrest, it’s easy to let fear dictate our decisions rather than faith. Yet, just as in biblical times, God’s call remains unwavering. When He summons us to action, hesitation is not an option. This truth was powerfully illustrated during the 2008 financial crisis when our team faced a pivotal moment in a major capital campaign. Despite the economic collapse, we learned that when God is at work, His mission cannot be derailed by temporary setbacks.

When Even Stones Must Speak

Jesus’ statement about the stones crying out occurs during His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The crowds were praising God joyfully, declaring, “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Luke 19:38). The Pharisees, uncomfortable with this proclamation, demanded that Jesus silence His followers. But Jesus made it clear: some truths are so essential that if people don’t proclaim them, creation itself will. This passage teaches us that God’s purposes cannot be thwarted by human resistance or unfavorable circumstances. If we shrink back, God will raise up other means to accomplish His will. The question is: Will we be the ones who boldly declare His truth, or will we step aside while even the stones take up the cry?

A Modern-Day Test: The 2008 Financial Crisis and a Faithful Response

In 2008, our team was deep into the public phase of a major diocesan capital campaign. The vision was clear, the strategy was set, and momentum was building—until the stock market began to falter. Then, seemingly overnight, the market lost nearly 50% of its value. Panic set in across the financial world, and our client faced a critical decision: Should they pause the campaign? Delay the launch? Scale back the vision?

Fear and doubt crept in. Many voices urged caution:

• “This is the worst possible time to ask for money.”
• “People are too worried about their own finances to give sacrificially.”
• “Maybe we should wait until the economy recovers.”

These concerns were not unfounded. The economic collapse was real, and its impact on donors was unpredictable. Yet, at the heart of this campaign was not just a fundraising goal but a divine calling. This initiative had been bathed in prayer, meticulously planned, and aligned with God’s mission. The purpose was transformational—not just building facilities and funding programs, but advancing God’s Kingdom.

After much prayer and deliberation, the decision was clear: move forward. Why?

• God’s timing is perfect. If He had called them to this campaign, then this was the time—regardless of external circumstances.
• The mission was bigger than money. The campaign was about obedience, vision, and trusting God to provide.
• History shows God provides in impossible situations. From the Israelites crossing the Red Sea to the early church’s growth under persecution, God has always made a way.

The Outcome: God’s Faithfulness in the Midst of Uncertainty

Despite the economic turmoil, the campaign not only succeeded—it exceeded its goal and finished on time. How?

1. People Gave Sacrificially

Many donors recognized that their giving was an act of faith. They were not just supporting a project but participating in God’s work. Their generosity defied economic logic because it was rooted in spiritual conviction.

2. The Team Stayed Focused

Rather than allowing fear to dominate discussions, the team kept the mission central. They addressed practical concerns (adjusting timelines, communicating transparently with donors) but never lost sight of the spiritual calling.

3. God Honored Their Obedience

Scripture repeatedly shows that when God’s people step out in faith, He provides (Philippians 4:19). This campaign was no exception. The financial crisis did not limit God’s ability to supply.

Lessons for Today: Why We Must Keep Proclaiming God’s Truth

1. The World Needs Hope Now More Than Ever

In times of crisis, people are searching for stability and meaning. The Church must not retreat but instead boldly proclaim the hope of Christ. If we remain silent, the world will fill the void with despair.

2. Delayed Obedience Is Disobedience

When God calls us to act, waiting for “better circumstances” can mean missing His purpose. Moses could have waited for Pharaoh to soften his heart, David could have waited for Saul to step down, and Nehemiah could have waited for political stability—but they didn’t. They acted when God said to act.

3. Faith Overcomes Fear

The 2008 campaign succeeded not because the economy rebounded quickly (it didn’t) but because people trusted God more than they feared loss. The same principle applies today—whether in fundraising, evangelism, or personal discipleship.

Will We Be the Ones to Cry Out?

The stones in Luke 19 were ready to shout if the disciples fell silent. Today, God is looking for people who will declare His truth regardless of the circumstances. The economy may waver, the culture may shift, and fear may rise—but God’s mission remains unchanged.

Will we be the ones who boldly proclaim His goodness, even in uncertain times? Or will we step back, forcing the stones to cry out in our place? The choice is ours. Let us be a people who, like the disciples—and like that capital campaign team in 2008—refuse to be silenced. Because when God is at work, we have something to shout about!