A Time to be Still

Psalm 46:10  in the Amplified Bible says, “Be still and know (recognize, understand) that I am God.” Other versions say “cease striving,” “stop fighting,” or “desist.” In context, the Psalmist is proclaiming that God is our refuge and that He is with us. There is no better place to find rest and peace than in the Shelter of God (Psalm 91:1). In this stillness, we are to praise God, thank Him, and follow Him. Every time the phrase “be still” is in Scripture, it is accompanied by an act of faith. One of the best-known examples is Exodus 14:13-14, “But Moses told the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the LORD’s salvation, which He will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians you see today, you will never see again. The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.”” If the Israelites had literally stood still, the result of this historical event would have been very different. They had to step out in faith and cross the sea! Imagine walking on dry land but with WALLS of water on both sides of you and the largest army in the world chasing you. This stillness is a trust that God will do what He says He will do and an act of faith to do what has been commanded.

As a child, perhaps you heard the words, “because I said so.” As a parent, perhaps you cringed the first time those same words escaped your lips. In The Mandalorian season one, Kuill, one of the main characters repeats the phrase, “I have spoken” at the end of all of his demonstrative statements. In other words, “I’ve said all there is to say on this matter and that’s how it’s going to be.” This character does what he says he will do and keeps his word. He expects the same from the people he chooses to trust. When we first watched the show, I thought, “I’m going to start saying that at the end of my requests and discussions with my children.” It wasn’t long after that when I first read the phrase, “I, the Lord, have spoken” in my daily Bible reading in the book of Ezekiel. This phase is found 18 times (in the ESV) in this book alone. In the entire Old Testament, depending on your version, this phrase occurs at least TEN other times. God is repeating Himself to the Israelites over and over, saying, “Because I’m YHWY and I say so!”

God tells us to be still. He gives us clear directions. Then says, “because I AM!” We have the benefit of the whole picture, all the promises and warnings, the consequences, and the reconciliation. Pay attention when God speaks through His Word. When He says, “Stop fighting!” He’s saying, “I have a better way. I will take care of you if you will let me.”