He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” –Psalm 46:10 (NIV)

Perhaps it was rather easy at first to pace ourselves through this season when we had no idea it would go on for this long in this way!  With the pandemic sweeping across the nation, life as we had comfortably come to know it has been interrupted in most every way.  Many of us have been forced to slow down while all of the frontline workers have been called to keep pace with the demands.  It is indeed a time of trouble.  Like wandering in the wilderness, the longer this season goes on, the more difficult it becomes for people to remain patient and faithful.  Yet God’s Word contains many reminders for us to do just that.  I recalled today the many times throughout scripture where God’s divinely calming directive was spoken:  “Be still…”

Wherever you find these words, “Be still”, in the scriptures, God is essentially reaching down from heaven to remind us of his sovereignty, his glory, and his power. 

He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. –Mark 4:39-41 (NIV)

Jesus demonstrated his power when he calmed the storms right before the terrified disciples’ eyes!  It is interesting to note that as the disciples sought Jesus’ help, it was their lack of faith that had them wake Jesus terrified that they were going to perish.  This scripture is not only a reminder of us God’s power and glory, but it also challenges us to be mindful of our lack of faith during trying times.

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. –Psalm 37:7a (NIV)

It is believed that King David wrote Psalm 37 in his old age as an encouragement to discouraged believers during trying times.  He wrote “be still” in response to the problem and presence of evil to remind us that any ground gained by evildoers is temporary.  It is an encouraging reminder that trouble does not last.  We must be patient and wait.  And in our waiting, we must keep the faith.

There are many assurances throughout the scriptures of God’s precious promises for us as believers.  Zechariah, a Hebrew prophet, wrote in this second chapter about God’s promise to punish the enemies of God while blessing his people.  As the 11^th verse confirms, this includes all of us joined to God’s kingdom through faith in Jesus Christ!  This promise tells us that God will dwell among us in a powerful way.  What a reason to rejoice!  This was his third vision.  By this 13^th verse, however, Zechariah writes “be still”. 

“Be still before the Lord, all mankind, because he has roused himself from his holy dwelling.” –Zechariah 2:13

This directive suggests that we will be filled with surprising awe and reverential fear at what God does in that day!  Right now, these scriptures should remind us of our security as believers.  So, stop worrying.  No matter what things may look like, you must trust God.  Stop letting the world news distract you, and listen instead to the Lord.  Keep your faith in God as you wait patiently for this pandemic to end.  As Psalm 46: 1-2 says “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear…”! 

Be still and know that God will defend His Name, His Word, and His people!  Hallelujah!