Be Still and Know
Be Still and Know
In Psalm 46:10, the Sons of Korah counsel the people, “Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” It’s a very well-known verse, yet what does it really mean? These words have been used to comfort others during times of suffering, loss, or hardship, reminding them that God is a God we can know. He reveals Himself to us in many ways that are counterintuitive to our earthly sensibilities. He rarely answers prayer in the way we might hope He would, yet He always shows His love for us, no matter what the circumstance. God Himself explains that His ways are not our ways and He knows far better than we do what we need at any given time.
But what is the connection between being still and knowing He is God? I recently experienced an unexpected answer to that question during prayer time with a dear friend. She, a prominent physician and department head at a prestigious university, was put totally out of commission for many painful weeks after being severely injured in a car crash due to the recklessness of the driver of another vehicle.
I marveled at her great grace, courage, and humility during this long season of her painful recovery. As I frequently enquired about her welfare and state of mind, I always came away from our conversations and prayer times, amazed at her ability to see God’s great love for her and His goodness during this very challenging trial. The Lord impressed upon me in our prayer time together to see the words of Psalm 46:10 in a whole new way. As my friend shared, being literally ‘still’ before the LORD had given her insight into previously unknown aspects of God’s character. I’d always held the belief that this beloved verse is a conditional opportunity for each of us to choose. Yet, I perceived Him saying, ‘IF you are still, THEN you will know God.’ This epiphany stopped me in my tracks. I have prayed to be more still, that I might gain a broader perspective on who our Great God truly is.
Let us Walk in His Way.
Dear Lord Jesus, please help us slow down, calm down, quiet down, and return to that place of peace so that we can come to know You better and rest in Your abiding love. It is here, in this place, where we will indeed know that You alone are God. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
by Corinne “Kinney” deHamel
author of “Walk in His Way” for
Carry the Light Ministries
