21 Oct – Be Still

Be still. Its something we can find hard to do, but there are seasons where it’s imperative we discipline ourselves to pause, rest and be still. As in today, where I have broken bones and ligaments that need time to heal. The longer I fail to be still, the more painful and drawn out my recovery. Or how our hearts and minds need time to recuperate, refocus and settle down into God’s presence to be renewed.

Unfortunately it is far more common for us to never make real time to be still, unless we are literally forced to. Instead we rush about from one task, person, text message, phone call and demand to the next. Or we try to fool ourselves and everyone else by looking calm, whilst really we’re more like a duck, perpetually paddling like crazy beneath the surface.

The call for us to be still is mentioned numerous times in the bible. It’s often mentioned when God wants to work on our behalf.

“The Lord will fight for you while you (only need to) keep silent and remain calm (Be Still)” (Exodus 14:14)

Be still, keep calm and be silent means not complaining even if it looks like an impossible situation. God wants us to be still so He can make His move. He works miracles, he heals broken hearts and bodies. He brings justice, He makes wrong things right.

Being still means we stop paddling madly, rest back in His arms, lean on his shoulder and allow God to fight for us. He’ll tell us when to speak, what to do and where to move. If we need to keep standing He’ll guide us, but He mostly wants us to stay in a position of rest and trust.

Today practice being still. Be quiet, be inactive, stop striving, keep quiet and hold your peace.  When God says no, accept His no. When He says wait, wait. When He says let go, do it. Don’t try to force open the door God closed for you, but fix your focus on God and His promises as you ask Him to help you stay in peace, as you wait and trust in Him.

Psalm 46:10 He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.“

Exodus 14:14 “The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.”

Psalm 37:7 “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices!”

Psalm 62:5 “For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him.”

Prayer: Lord thank you that you direct my steps. Please give me wisdom to know when to fight, when to stand, when to speak and when to be still and remain silent as you fight for me. In the stillness you are there, so please help me to find time to be still everyday. In Jesus name. Amen.