cease

“Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted among the earth.”

Psalms 46:10 NIV

Wisdom starts in the fear of the Lord, but reverence is found in stillness.

When was the last time you embraced a moment of solitude? Laid on the floor and looked up at the ceiling?

When was the last time you were truly alone with God?

Choosing intentional stillness and silence allows us to be shaped by God’s desires. ‘Be still and then know,’ He says. In the quiet we remember that God is God and we are not. It’s where we lay the burden of expectation down and trust God is in control.

Like the people of Israel wandering in the wilderness, we are called to remember the mighty works of God and recall upon His wondrous deeds (Ps 105:5)! Yet, how quickly we return to our bondage—yoking ourselves to false wells of control, money, opinion and time, ’If I don’t post today, I’ll lose my following,’  ‘If I don’t work through the night I won’t make enough money.’ We so easily push God aside to pursue momentary things.

Amidst all the chaos in the world, it’s important to intentionally create sacred space between us and God. We need time to absorb, to percolate and think. We need time to process and pray. As we journey to discover more of who we are, let us remember whose we are (Gal 2:20). God is eternally invested in you. Rest confidently in the knowledge that He is faithful. Rest peacefully in the truth of His Word.

Be still and learn the gracious rhythm of self denial and celebration that embodies a life of discipleship to Jesus. 

reflect:

In the spirit of Lent, is there something you can give up to create more empty space in your life? How can you refocus your mind and heart on God? Seek the Lord and He will speak to you. 

centering prayer

LORD, show me the steps I can take to refocus my heart and mind on You. amen.