Be Still

by Hoyt Smith

Are you busy? Does your typical day have you running full-throttle from the moment your alarm clock goes off until you fall into bed at night? If so, you're not alone. Welcome to 21st century American society. I remember reading science articles many years ago praising the coming Computer Age where scientists and sociologists predicted mankind will have more free time and fewer work hours... boy were they wrong! Even our recreational activities, which are supposed to rejuvenate and relax us, can be nearly as fast paced and stressful as our jobs.
Sadly, I'm afraid many of us are losing our ability to be still and contemplate the majesty and goodness of Almighty God. Our society seems oriented towards constant action and background noise, such as TV's, radios, and cell phones. It's hard to escape and find solitude. However, it is important for us to experience daily quiet time. Psalm 46:10 says "Be still and know that I am God..." We miss a great opportunity to grow closer to the Lord when we don't take time to "...stand still and consider the wondrous works of God." ( Job 37:14).
How can we find quiet time and be still? Perhaps the early morning hours, while experiencing the stillness of the day and the awesome beauty of the sunrise, will work for you. This is the time of day David chose to commune with God: "My voice You shall hear in the morning, O Lord; In the morning I will direct it to You, and I will look up." Also, the morning commute in your car may provide some quiet time, but be sure to turn the radio off! Maybe night time is best for you, when the activities of the day wind down, and the beautiful sunset and the majestic beauty of the moon and stars inspire you to reflect upon God. Again, the Psalmist said, in chapter 8 verses 3 and 4: "When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars which You have ordained, what is man that You are mindful of him...?" Also, Psalm 4:4 says to "...meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still." Wouldn't it be much better to reflect on the Lord as you fall asleep instead of worrying about what you didn't get done today? Whatever may work for you, I encourage you to find time in your day to "be still."

• Of Work and Time -Jun 08, 2008
• Time -Mar 16, 2008
• Christianity 24/7 -Sep 23, 2007
• Worship and Time Management -Dec 03, 2006
• With Everything Going... -Jul 02, 2006