Be Still And Know
Most people are doers. We want tasks accomplished, problems solved, and goals achieved. Our independent and self-reliant minds look to dig in and get it done. In many instances, this is good and required. However, action without thought and clear direction can lead to more problems rather than solutions.
As a younger lad, I often got myself into trouble due to a lack of thinking. I’d hop on my bike, strap down my skis, or start to climb before I took the time to consider what I was about to do. I was all action. As a result, I’d find myself 10 feet in the air — laid out sideways — with no real confidence that I would get my tires or skis back under me before I once again made contact with the earth. I managed to survive to be able to write this, but looking back, I have no idea how.
Our son (now 21 years old) has the same daring spirit. However, there is a fundamental difference between him and me. Monte takes the time to think about what he is going to do. Sure, he has YouTube, but that’s no excuse. He stops to consider what is going to be required for success and moves forward with a plan. As a result, his success rate has been much higher than mine.
We have struggles. The world has a lot of struggles. We want answers, solutions, fixes, and results. As people of action, we tend to jump in and often find ourselves sideways, 10 feet in the air, and in trouble. When adrenaline and emotion take the lead in our actions, typically more problems arise than solutions. However, when we take the time to stop and consider first, and then apply that adrenaline and emotion to a logical plan, great actions take place that change lives and are remembered for generations.
Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” A command and a promise are in these words. Our command to obey is “Be still.” We will be called to action. But God wants us to first focus on Him, His Word, and His strength. Once we get the plan from Him, then we can move out with confidence. The promise is that we will know that He is God and He will be exalted.
Sometimes it feels like God isn’t listening, doesn’t care, or isn’t paying attention. All of this is wrong all the time. When we obey, take a breath, and wait in stillness, we are able to perceive the presence and instruction of the Lord. Once we are pointed in the right direction, motivated by the proper ambition, and empowered by the Creator of the universe, our adrenaline and emotion will engage us in action that transforms us and those around us.
Be still! God will make it abundantly clear when action is required. When He calls, move! But until then just be still and know that He is God!
Praiseallujiah!
Jon
