Be Still And Know

“Be still, and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10a

Have you ever been still? I mean really still. No cell phone, TV, or computer. No children running in and out. Complete and utter silence.

Imagine calmness filled only with your thoughts and God’s presence. If only we had the time, right?

Many things demand our time. And we give that time away and waste it freely, as though we have an endless supply. As Christians, we do—in eternity.

Meanwhile, here on the earth, if we’re to be effective disciples, we must spend time alone with God. Jesus modeled this for us.

“…crowds of people came to hear him and to be healed of their sicknesses. But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Luke 5:15b-16.

“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” Mark 1:35.

Many are unwilling to give God premium time—the time they’d rather be doing something else. And let’s face it, even when we’re willing, much of our time is committed to jobs and family. So what does this leave? Free time?

How much free time is enough?

“O Lamb of God, deliver me…

From subtle love of softening things,

From easy choices, weakenings...

From all that dims Thy Calvary

O Lamb of God, deliver me."

~Amy Carmichael, missionary

I often take inventory when life’s demands and deadlines seem overwhelming. I don’t know about you, but Amy Carmichael’s words challenge me. What do I allow to dim His Calvary? Whatever I find that to be—it’s not more important than spending time alone with God.

Rearranging our schedules to have quiet time—be still and know time—with God, is necessary as Christians. It’s during this time we replenish our spirits.

When God has my undivided attention, inspiration and rejuvenation takes place, which are imperative for me to effectively do His Kingdom work.

What is God trying to whisper to your heart today?

Laura Hodges Poole is a freelance writer with dozens of articles, devotions, and short stories in publication. She is a 2014 ACFW Genesis semi-finalist and a 2012 RWA Emily finalist in Christian fiction. Laura is also an Associate Editor with Christian Devotions ministry, as well as a ghostwriter/collaborator. Her passion is encouraging others in their Christian walk through her blog, "A Word of Encouragement." She may be contacted at laurapoole565@gmail.com. Follow her on Twitter @ Laura_Poole. 

© Laura Hodges Poole 

Woman in Wheat Field Image courtesy of Marin/FreeDigitalPhotos.net.