One of the most comforting phrases in the Bible is “be still”, and it carries the authority to calm the turbulence not just in our external world but within our hearts – that God is in control, that He is our refuge and strength, and that He will never leave us nor forsake us.
Today, we are being reminded, not of our weakness, but of His strength, that when challenges loom large, and uncertainties cast shadows, this gentle command will redirect our focus to the One who holds the universe in His hands.
Since He is the unchanging constant in a world of uncertainties, whatever difficulties we face, let’s pause, take a breath, and remember that the God who spoke the universe into existence is intimately involved in the details of our lives.
Key Takeaway to “Be Still”
- Be Still: That we should take time to be still and know that God is in control. We should trust in Him and find peace in His presence.
Anchor Bible Verse of the day (Psalm 46:10 NKJV)
Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!
This verse is part of a psalm that celebrates God’s protection and deliverance of His people from their enemies. It’s a reminder that we do not have to be in control of everything in our lives.
When we are still, we can hear His voice and feel His presence. We can find peace in knowing that He is with us. The phrase “Be still” means to stop striving, to let go of our worries and fears, and to trust in God. It is a call to surrender our lives to Him and to find rest in His presence.
Key Explanations
- Be still: To stop striving, to let go of our worries and fears, and to trust in God.
- Know that I am God: A reminder that God is in control and that we can trust in Him.
- I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!: A reminder that God is sovereign and that He will be exalted above all else.
Reflection on “Be Still”
Many a time, we find ourselves in situations where we feel overwhelmed by problems or pressures, and we try to solve our issues or rely on our resources. In such instances, we forget that God is with us and for us and that He has everything under control.
Today, we’re being challenged to be still before God and to know Him as our God. We’re being invited to surrender our lives to Him and to trust Him with all our hearts – an encouragement to rest in His grace and to rejoice in His glory.
(Psalm 4610)
Being still before God is not easy or natural for us. We are used to being busy, active, and productive. We are used to being independent, self-reliant, and self-sufficient. We are used to being anxious, worried, and stressed. We are used to being noisy, distracted, and restless.
But being still before God is essential and beneficial for us:
- It helps us to focus on Him, to listen to Him, and to worship Him.
- It helps us to humble ourselves, to repent of our sins, and to receive His forgiveness.
- It helps us to grow in faith, hope, and love.
- It helps us to experience His peace, joy, and strength.
Being still before God also enables us to know Him as our God, for:
- It allows us to discover His attributes, His works, and His ways.
- It allows us to appreciate His beauty, His goodness, and His holiness.
- It allows us to enjoy His presence, His fellowship, and His friendship.
Knowing God as our God also inspires us to exalt Him among the nations and in the earth. It motivates us to share His gospel, His love, and His grace with others. It motivates us to serve His kingdom, His church, and His people with others. It motivates us to praise His name, His power, and His glory with others.
In Matthew 11:28-30 Jesus says:
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.
This verse is a reminder that we can find rest in Jesus. We do not have to carry our burdens alone. We can come to Him and find rest for our souls.
Beloved, whatever wilderness you’re passing through now can be dealt with by the One who created you. Be still, and let go, and allow Him to take over.
May you have a blessed day!
Call to Action
Today, amidst the noise of life, take intentional moments to be still. Whether in prayer, reflection, or a quiet walk, create space for stillness. Let this simple act be a gateway to a deeper awareness of God’s presence and a source of peace in life’s storms.
Prayer Points for Today
- Bold Stillness: Pray for the courage to embrace moments of stillness, setting aside the busyness to encounter God.
- Deeper Knowing: Pray for a deeper knowledge of God in the stillness, seeking to understand His character and love more profoundly.
- Soul Rest: Pray for rest for your soul, echoing Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 11:28-30, and ask for a profound sense of tranquility.
Let’s Pray
Our Father, as we pause to be still, we acknowledge Your presence. Grant us the grace to find rest and peace in the stillness, knowing that You are God.
In the precious and mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
My prayer for you today: I pray that as you embrace moments of stillness, you find profound peace and a deeper connection with God.
