Be Still

The clap of thunder or a strong wind readily gets our attention, but what about the hum of cicadas on a summer evening, water rippling downstream, or the swoosh of a bird’s wings as it flies overhead? Such sounds are like background music, constant yet we can only appreciate the melody if we are stop and listen.

Psalm 46:10 reminds us, “Be still, and know that I am God.” The context for this familiar verse is actually one of chaos, a world crumbling around us with war, strife and destruction. And yet, God’s message to us to to be still. To trust Him. Stillness implies both silence and patience. It’s listening and waiting.

In 1 Kings 19, Elijah retreats in fear when the evil queen Jezebel sought to kill him. But God meets him there in that isolated cave and ministers to his weary soul. 

“And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper.” (11-12)

God spoke to Elijah in a whisper, or as the New King James Version says, “a still, small voice.” We cannot hear God in noisy surroundings. We cannot experience Him when we are distracted with earthly busyness.

So this weekend, give yourself the gift of stillness. Give yourself permission to be bored and resist the urge for continuous stimulation. Instead, listen for the sounds of nature; listen for Him.

Dear Jesus, thank you for the opportunity to escape, rest and enjoy friends. Help us to be still and hold a place for you. The cross is evidence that you have already battled for us and that you are good. In the chaos that is this broken world, we can trust you. Amen.