“Be still and know that I am God..” Psalm 46:10
“Sit still! Don’t wiggle!” How often have you said those words to a squirmy child? How often have you whispered those words to yourself as you mentally fidget while reading the Bible or praying? Or—more likely—when disease or disaster looms?
Experts agree that the words of Psalm 46 probably weren’t written while God’s beloved children roamed green pastures or rested beside still waters. It is more likely that they were escaping advancing hordes and enraged tyrants. Even nature seemed to conspire against them with quaking mountains and roaring waters.
After describing these horrors, the writer extols the glory and power of God and finally slips in, “Be still!”, or more literally, “Cease, relax, quit striving, chill out!” How is this possible and how do I learn to live like this as a general rule?
The Apostle Paul, writing to Christians under similar conditions, gives encouraging advice: “Rejoice! Don’t be anxious! Pray with thanksgiving about everything!” And finally this promise: “Then the peace of God which is beyond human understanding will calm your fears and give you mental quiet” (Philippians 4:4-7).
It’s this practice of joy-filled living, intentional prayer, and increased understanding of the nature of God that leads to and feeds the practice of stillness. This doesn’t happen casually or overnight. It takes a daily surrender over the irritating minutiae of life, agreement with a loving God that He has purpose and plan for each of us.
Keep practicing!
It’s hard for me to sit still, Father. If I’m not squirming with impatience, I’m running ahead of you at my own favored pace. Remind me, please, of the benefit of stillness as I sit before you daily
By Marilyn Ehle
Used by Permission
Further Reading
• Fast Of Words: A Different Kind of Fast
• How to have a “Quiet Time”
• Salvation Explained