“Be Still and Know That I Am God”

"Be Still and Know That I Am God"

The art of stillness and being quiet is becoming more difficult in our increasingly noisy and busy lives. If you live on or near a busy road, you will be well familiar with the thunder of traffic (as I am!). The world is getting a noisier place, and to find somewhere you can just rest is becoming more difficult.

Before mechanisation, the world was a quieter place, and it was easier to find solace, reflect, meditate and spend precious time with God. Sadly, not so today.

‘Loud and brash’ seems to be the characteristic of our present age, with advertisements constantly clamouring for our attention. Work often takes up so much of our time, and loud music can so easily interrupt our peace, etc.

Even in the solitude of churches, worship is amplified to earth-shaking decibels and any room for quiet contemplation and the stillness of prayer is easily lost.

The findings of medical science have shown that if we do not get enough rest, it isn’t good for our physical or mental health. There seem to be so few today, who rest, or find stillness, even when they have free time to themselves. Folk in today’s world, always seem to be, on the go.

The 21st century is so much faster than those that preceded it, as we whizz around in cars, buses, trains, etc, often forgetting the beauty of the natural world around us.

There is a huge industry worth billions that aggressively market meditation and mindfulness courses, among other therapies to combat life, but sadly, many of these are yoked with eastern religion.

Some of these mixed messages may be practically helpful, while some are gimmicky, and others, even harmful. There also Christian books, CDs, apps, and videos on YouTube, etc, that purport to be helpful. However, as in all things, one should their spiritual discernment.

So what refuge can we find for peace, quiet and prayer? Jesus clearly tells us that when spending time with the Lord, we should find somewhere tranquil. Such a place could be your bedroom, or basically anywhere you feel secure and comfortable.

Finally, to help concentrate our minds on finding stillness, here are some scriptures that will help with our endeavours:

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

2 Timothy 1:7, “For God gives us the spirit not of fear, but of power, love and self-control”.

Exodus 14:14, “The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent”.

God bless you xxx.

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