Thursday did not turn out at all as I had planned. I didn’t feel well, so postponed my luncheon and shopping. Bob was gone in the morning taking the cat to the vet, and again in the afternoon for an emergency dentist appointment. I was alone, and it was quiet for much of my day. It was probably the quietest day I have had in months.
I read Psalm 46 in the morning. We are probably all familiar with that often-quoted verse 10: “Be still and know that I am God.”
Would it surprise you to learn that still does not mean to be quiet and not talk? The word is raphah, and it means “to cast down, let fall, to let hang down (especially the hands).” It is used in the sense of not making any effort or putting forth any exertion. It carries the idea of ceasing all struggle and leaving everything in God’s Hands.
Read Psalm 46 and notice how God is portrayed. Our refuge, strength, ever-present help. He is the LORD Almighty, our fortress. He works among us; bringing desolations and causing wars to cease and defeating enemies. It doesn’t matter if the very mountains fall into the sea or quake mightily … our God is mightier than anything and as verse 11 points out … He is “with us.” It is only in knowing our God after that fashion that we can cease all struggles, be still, and leave everything in God’s Hands.
Father, the struggles I face are nothing in comparison to Your greatness. You are my fortress and strength, my ever-present help. By Your Spirit, enable me to be still today and know beyond all doubt that You are God and You are with me. Amen.
