Psalm 46:10 holds a powerful message that resonates with our struggle to find stillness. “Be still, and know that I am God” (NIV).
You may find yourself asking, How did he stay focused? How did the psalmist find stillness amidst the chaos? How can we do the same?
In biblical terms, the phrase be still is derived from the original Hebrew word raphah, which means “to be weak, to let go, to release, to cease.”1 It implies a state of calmness, tranquility, and surrender. When the psalmist implores us to “be still” in Psalm 46:10, it carries a deeper meaning beyond physical stillness. It is an invitation to cease our efforts, quiet our minds, and rest in the assurance of God’s sovereignty and presence.
Knowing that God is God means acknowledging His power, wisdom, and love. It means recognizing that He is in control of all things and that we can find refuge and strength in Him. When we embrace stillness, we open ourselves up to experiencing the peace and comfort that comes from knowing that God is with us, guiding us, and working in our lives. It’s a powerful way to effectively filter out the distractions that surround us, enabling us to foster a state of biblical surrender.
In a world filled with distractions, the call to be still remains ever relevant. Being still does not mean doing nothing; rather, it is about redirecting our focus to what truly matters. How often do we choose quietness over activity, meditation over distraction, prayer over productivity? Will we be endlessly distracted by the trivialities of our day, or will we set our minds on what really matters? The distractions may be constant, but we can actively create space for stillness in our lives.
Here are a few practical suggestions:
- Prioritize God’s Word. Set aside a specific time each day to be alone with God. Create a sacred space, free from distractions, where you can pray, read the Bible, and meditate on His Word.
- Unplug and detox. Take intentional breaks from technology, social media, and other sources of constant noise. Disconnecting from the virtual world allows us to reconnect with our own thoughts and with God.
- Engage in mindful practices. Incorporate activities such as journaling, deep breathing, or walking in nature to help calm your mind and be present in the moment. These practices can cultivate a sense of stillness and gratitude.
- Seek solitude. Find moments of solitude throughout the day, even in the midst of a busy schedule. Whether it’s a few minutes of silence before starting your day or a quiet walk during your lunch break, intentionally create space for stillness.
If we could catch a glimpse of who Jesus really is, we wouldn’t struggle to focus on Him. Let God be the anchor that grounds you, today. Find the strength and courage to embrace stillness in your own life and experience the transformative power it brings. By prioritizing moments of stillness, we can cultivate a deeper connection with our Creator and find peace amidst the chaos. Trust His presence, surrender your worries and hold solace in His sovereignty today.
Work Cited
1. Strong’s H7503, Blue Letter Bible, accessed December 5, 2023, https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/h7503/niv/wlc/0-1/.
ABOUT JACKIE AVILES
Jackie Aviles is an author, speaker, and licensed coach who communicates hope from a biblical perspective. After receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis, she committed her life to standing beside those grieving through painful circumstances for the sake of others’ encouragement. Her passion is to see women taking God at His word, experiencing hope, and unleashing it into the spaces around them. She’s also a pastor’s wife and mom of two currently living in Miami, Florida.
