"Be Still"

“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” (Psalm 46:10 ESV)

At the beginning of this Psalm, the Psalmist writes of God’s power and greatness. He talks of the fortress of God, who rescues those who place their faith in Him. The Psalmist is clearly describing God's sovereignty and power. This reminder of God's sovereignty should reassure you and give you a sense of security in your faith, knowing that He is always in control. In this case, it was written so that Israel would remember that God is their protector. Given that, let us focus on one verse which is set apart from the others.

In verse ten, the Psalmist presents the words spoken by God. We know this because the Psalmist placed the verse in quotation marks. God tells us to be still, but this stillness is not a lack of motion. The stillness God speaks of is the stillness of our soul. It means letting go of our fears and surrendering to the Lord, knowing that He has authored all things.

He is reminding us to quiet ourselves in prayer and meditation. To see deeper into the creation around us and recognize that He is God and that His power is endless.

God reminds us to exhort His greatness to the world. The Psalmist uses the word nations, which refers to the Gentiles, those outside of the Israelites. The use of this word is very telling. It means that the message to Israel is also the message to all people. I see this as a foretelling of the unification of the children of God through Christ Jesus. God is telling us that He will be worshiped by all people, in every nation, tribe, and country.

In the Old Testament, God spoke to His people through others. While God moves us today by His will, those who imply God has audibly spoken to them are more than likely hearing from demonic principalities. We have a closed canon, and Christ is our mediator between God the Father and us. The Holy Spirit, who dwells within us, provides the guidance and prayer we need.

When we are in times of need, we must remember God is God, and His will cannot be undone. So, quiet yourself, speak to the Lord, and surrender to His will. When we do, we will find that in the most traumatic, terrifying, and emotionally draining times, we will find peace in Christ. It is He who carries our burdens, not laying more upon us. Jesus said: “Come to me, all 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.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

Be still and know that He is God. Calm your mind, your heart, and your soul by laying your burdens upon the Lord. That is why He came, and died, and rose, so that by faith we could be given salvation, and cling to the cross in times of need.

Are you seeking peace in your life? There is no peace without our Savior, Christ the Lord. Seek Him today. Open the door and let him into your heart.

Grace and Peace!