"Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” Psalm 46:10
As we find ourselves in the middle of this month, take a moment to reflect. Just like a lush garden needs time to breathe and bloom, our spiritual lives thrive in stillness. Scripture reminds us in Psalm 46:10, "Be still, and know that I am God." This call to pause is not merely an invitation; it's a powerful opportunity to deepen our connection with the Divine.
Think of Jesus, who frequently withdrew to lonely places to pray, as we see in Mark 6:31. His moments of solitude were not signs of weakness, but rather opportunities for renewal and closeness with His Father. When we carve out time in our busy lives, much like a breath mark in a musical score, we create space for intimacy to flourish. The hustle may tempt us to rush, but in doing so, we risk losing the melody of our relationship with God.
Mark 6:31 says, Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, 'Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”
This weekend, set aside a Sabbath hour and guard it like the precious appointment it is. Let it be a space where your heart can rest and your spirit can reconnect. Remember the wisdom of Paul Borthwick: “Busyness is the enemy of intimacy.” By choosing still moments, we find ourselves wrapped in God’s presence, immersing our souls in a sacred rhythm that brings us closer to Him.
As you engage in this stillness, remember, "A rested soul prays without words. The calm we keep makes room for God to speak." So, let your stillness become a sanctuary because in the hush between breaths, you will hear God clearly. Embrace this assurance, and let His peace wash over you. Acknowledge that “rest is worship too,” as it is in these quiet moments that we truly honor His presence in our lives. Exodus 33:14 says, "The LORD replied, 'My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
Prayer for the Day!
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of stillness. Brethren, I pray for you, may the Holy Spirit help you to cherish your quiet moments with God, allowing intimacy to bloom in your heart. May your soul grow familiar with His whisper, and may His gentle presence quiet every anxious thought. In the stillness, may you find refuge, wisdom for your steps, and courage for your battles. May His peace guard your heart and mind, and His love steady you like an anchor in the storm. As you wait before Him, may your affections be reordered, your strength renewed, and your vision clarified. May gratitude rise, obedience deepen, and hope abound. May the secret place become your sure dwelling, and the knowledge of His nearness be your daily song. In Jesus' name. Amen.