We are a species defined by our ambition. We strive, we seek, and we’re always trying to control our surroundings. In today’s fast-paced world, it can be hard to simply “be still.” What does that even mean?
Psalm 46:10 offers a powerful message: “Be still, and know that I am God.”
In this article, we’ll explore the meaning of “be still,” its applications in daily life, and its connection to faith and trust. We’ll explore the different facets of “being still” and offer some guidance on how to integrate it into your daily routine.
Decoding “Be Still”: Multiple Layers of Meaning
The command “be still” can be interpreted in a number of ways.
Withdrawing and Surrendering
“Be still” can mean backing away from conflict and surrendering to God’s will. It’s about deciding to be silent and nonresistant when you’re faced with opposition, as Jesus did when he withdrew from the Pharisees (Matthew 12:15-19).
It’s also about letting go of the need to defend yourself and trusting God to fight for you. As Exodus 14:13-14 says, “The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
Releasing and Letting Go of Personal Desires
“Be still” means releasing your personal agendas and trusting God’s plan, even when it’s not the same as your own. It means giving up control and letting God lead you.
It’s about understanding that God’s plans may be different—and often better—than your own, just as Jesus sent his disciples out and then entered cities to teach (Matthew 10, 11).
Ceasing to Strive and Relying on God’s Strength
“Be still” means stopping the struggle and relying on God’s strength. It’s about admitting you have limits and trusting in God’s power.
It’s about finding strength in weakness through God’s grace, because “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9).
The importance of “knowing” God
Psalm 46:10 emphasizes knowing that God is in control, not us. Understanding God’s power is key to achieving stillness.
You can cultivate a deeper relationship with God through prayer and reflection, which helps you connect with Him and understand His purpose.
It’s also important to recognize that God constantly cares for and protects you. As it says in Matthew 10:29,31, “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father’s will. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.”
Putting “be still” into practice: Cultivating stillness every day
While it’s easy to say “be still,” it’s harder to make it a part of everyday life. Here are some steps you can take to embrace stillness.
Overcoming anxiety and fear
“Being still” is a powerful weapon against the anxiety and fear that can plague us. It lets us release our worries and trust that God will provide for our needs.
Prayer is a powerful tool for connecting with God and receiving His guidance. Give your problems to God and allow His peace to fill you.
Finding balance between action and surrender
“Being still” doesn’t mean doing nothing at all. Instead, it means finding the right balance between taking action and surrendering to God’s plan.
Sometimes, that means acting. Other times, it means waiting on God. Trust that God will provide what you need.
As it says in Ecclesiastes 7:29, God made us plain and simple, but we have made ourselves very complicated.
Creating space for stillness
Make time in your day for quiet and solitude. That might mean meditation, prayer, or simply spending time in nature.
Reduce distractions and focus on the presence of God.
What happens when you become still? Peace, hope, and faith
Stillness creates inner peace and reduces inner turmoil. As it says in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
“Being still” also fosters hope, especially when life is hard. It’s a reminder that God is in control and working for our good.
Ultimately, stillness deepens our faith and trust in God’s ability to overcome whatever challenges we face. “In the world you have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does God say “be still”?
When God commands us to “be still,” it’s an invitation to quiet our minds, cease our striving, and recognize His presence and power in our lives. The world is a noisy place, and we are usually moving fast. God’s command to “be still” urges us to set aside the noise so we can hear Him.
What is the message of being still?
The message of being still is multifaceted. It encourages us to trust in God’s timing and plan, even when we don’t understand what’s happening. It reminds us that we are not in control and that true strength comes from surrendering to a higher power. It also allows us to be more present in our own lives.
What is to be still in the Bible?
In the Bible, “being still” is not just about physical stillness, but a state of inner tranquility and trust in God. It’s a call to release anxiety, fear, and the need to control, and instead, to find peace in God’s unwavering presence and guidance.
When God tells you to be still?
God tells you to be still when you’re overwhelmed by challenges, facing uncertainty, or struggling to hear His guidance. It’s often in moments of crisis or confusion that He calls us to quiet our hearts and minds so that we can receive His wisdom and direction.
In Closing
In a world that constantly begs for our attention, “being still” is more important than ever. It’s not a passive act, but an active choice to trust in something bigger than ourselves.
If you’re looking for more peace, hope, and faith, I encourage you to make stillness a regular practice in your life. Even a few moments of quiet reflection each day can have a powerful effect.
Remember, “Be still, and know that I am God” isn’t just a nice sentiment. It’s an invitation to a deeper relationship with the divine, however you understand it.