Psalm 81:10 — “Open your mouth and I will fill it.”
It is not uncommon to find clergy quote this verse in opening prayers for utterance before the Word is taught. Their idea is that the text means God will fill their mouth with inspired words to bless the congregation.
However, verses of Scripture must ALWAYS be read in context, this would mean examining the antecedent text (what came before the verse) and the succedent text (what came after the verse).
Note that the antecedent texts (verses 1-8) speak concerning God’s great acts of deliverance towards Israel. Verse 9 then gives an admonition to the Israelites not to seek after foreign gods. It is from this that vs. 10 flows. God was telling the Jews that they need not seek help nor supply from idols. He, who delivered them from captivity, would be their Provider.
The phrase “Open your mouth and I will fill it” is an allusion to nature, how baby birds open their mouths when fed by the mother-bird. (Barnes’ Notes on the Bible);
Verse 11 then speaks concerning Israel’s refusal to heed God’s instructions. They sought for their supply elsewhere.
In context, therefore, God’s promise to “fill their mouths” is not referring to giving a sermon, but nourishment. It has NOTHING to do with preaching the Word, but God’s promise to meet the needs of His people.
© Josh Banks Ministries. 2020.
