God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Be still, and know that I am God…

                                                                                                     Psalm 46:1,10a (ESV)

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Cease striving and know that I am God…

                                                                                                     Psalm 46:1,10a (NASB) 

Today we are going to emphasize being still. I know this cuts in the opposite direction of how our world molds and shapes us (always on the go). But I believe the rewards of being still are worth it. This is a passage that has meant a great deal to me over the years, especially when going through some difficult times. I have provided you with two versions because the standard way this verse has always been presented to me is, “Be still, and know that I am God.” But I like the NASB version in that it says, “Cease striving, and know that I am God.” The literal being used is “relax.” So whether you prefer, “Be still”, “Cease striving”, or “Relax”, I want today to be about that. My philosophy in studying the Bible is that we should be putting into practice what we are reading and learning. So much like our time in Psalm 19, today I will keep my comments brief and leave you to find the appropriate time and place to go and “Be still.” Take your Bible with you and something in which to write (if you should feel like doing so). Pray, be still, and enjoy time alone with God. It will be well worth your time!