Introduction: Be Still and Know God is with You
Life can often feel like a constant rush. From the moment we wake up to the time we go to bed, there’s an endless list of things we need to do, people to see, and problems to solve.
And in the middle of it all, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, even out of control. But God’s Word offers us a powerful reminder: “Be still, and know that I am God.”
This verse from Psalm 46:10 isn’t just a command; it’s an invitation to let go of our worries, surrender our struggles, and trust in God’s ever-present power.
Today, let’s take a moment to reflect on what it truly means to “be still” and how turning our focus to Jesus can transform our perspective, giving us peace in life’s storms.
Why “Be Still” is So Hard—and So Necessary
The phrase “be still” might seem simple, but in reality, it can be one of the hardest commands to follow. \
We’re conditioned to believe that the more we hustle, the more we’ll achieve. We’re taught that life is about control, about holding the reins as tightly as we can. And yet, this verse calls us to do the opposite: to release that control and rest in God.
Being still doesn’t mean doing nothing or ignoring our responsibilities. It means acknowledging that, ultimately, we’re not the ones in control—God is.
It’s about quieting the inner chaos and finding peace by surrendering our circumstances to a loving, all-powerful God.
Jesus as Our Example of Peace
One of the most profound examples of being still is found in the life of Jesus. In Mark 4:35-41, we see Jesus and His disciples caught in a storm on the Sea of Galilee.
The disciples were terrified, frantically trying to keep the boat from sinking. But Jesus? He was asleep in the back of the boat. Imagine that—a violent storm raging, waves crashing, yet Jesus was resting peacefully.
When the disciples woke Him in a panic, Jesus simply stood, rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still.”
Immediately, the storm calmed. This isn’t just a story about Jesus’ power over nature; it’s a message for us.
Jesus, the Prince of Peace, demonstrated that even in the fiercest storms, we can find calm by trusting in God. Just as He calmed the sea, He has the power to bring peace to our hearts, no matter how turbulent life becomes.
Learning to Trust God’s Timing and Sovereignty
Psalm 46:10 doesn’t stop at “Be still.” It goes on to say, “and know that I am God.” To “know” in this context is more than intellectual understanding; it’s a deep, heart-level trust in God’s character.
It’s a certainty that He is with us, that He is for us, and that He works all things for our good, even when we can’t see it.
Trusting God’s timing can be challenging. When we’re praying for answers, longing for change, or hoping for relief, waiting can feel like the hardest part.
Yet it’s often in the waiting that God is most at work, shaping our character, strengthening our faith, and teaching us to rely on Him completely.
Isaiah 40:31 reminds us, “Those who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength.” Waiting on God renews us because it draws us closer to Him and refines our faith.
Practical Steps to Be Still and Look to Jesus
So how do we practically “be still” in our daily lives? Here are a few steps to help us slow down, shift our focus to Jesus, and find peace in His presence:
- Set Aside Quiet Time Daily
Make a habit of carving out time each day to sit in silence with God. This could be through prayer, reading Scripture, or simply meditating on His promises. In this quiet space, invite God to fill you with His peace and remind you of His presence. - Release Your Worries in Prayer
Whatever is weighing on your heart, bring it to God. Instead of holding onto stress and trying to solve everything alone, lay your burdens at His feet. Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28) - Practice Mindful Breathing and Reflection
When stress starts to creep in, take a moment to pause, breathe deeply, and repeat a simple phrase like, “God is with me.” This helps ground you in the present moment, aligning your heart with God’s peace. - Remember His Faithfulness
Reflect on times in your life when God has come through for you, even when things looked impossible. Keeping a journal of answered prayers can be a powerful reminder of His faithfulness, especially during difficult times.
Conclusion: The Peace of Jesus in a World of Chaos
Today, we live in a world where it’s easy to feel constantly rushed and distracted. News, social media, and the demands of daily life can pull us in every direction.
Yet amidst it all, God offers us a peace that is not of this world. This peace doesn’t depend on our circumstances; it depends on Him.
Jesus said in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
When we look to Jesus and rest in His love, we begin to experience this unshakable peace. The storms may continue to rage around us, but we can stand firm, knowing that God is with us, guiding us, and holding us through it all.
Closing Prayer
Let’s close with a prayer, inviting God to still our hearts and fill us with His peace.
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your unchanging love and for the gift of peace that surpasses all understanding. We come before You today, laying down every worry, every fear, and every burden. Teach us to be still and to trust fully in Your power and wisdom. Help us to look to Jesus, our Prince of Peace, and to walk in faith each day. Fill us with the assurance that You are with us, that You are in control, and that You love us beyond measure. In Jesus’ precious name, we pray. Amen.
In a world that constantly demands more from us, remember this: You are invited to rest. You are invited to let go. And above all, you are invited to look to Jesus. Be still and know that He is God, and let His peace guide you today and every day.
