Learning To Be still

Learning To Be Still

Temptations, trials, suffering. We’ve all experienced them. Even as Christians, and sometimes specifically because we are Christian, we must endure pain, whether through loss, bankruptcy, unemployment, a broken relationship, etc. While no one is immune to hard times, believers are empowered through the Holy Spirit to endure them. Psalm 46:10 says, “Cease striving and know that I am God.” The KJV uses the expression, “Be still,” indicating that our best response to disappointments is to trust in the Lord.

How humbling it is to know that God’s children have a direct communication line to the Father, even in the midst of trouble. We do not have to respond like the world, with anger, depression, and revenge. Nor do we have to fix things in our own strength. Sure, we will still be tempted by the flesh, but as we “cease striving,” we will learn to trust in Him more each day.

The truth is, hardship does not form character; rather, it reveals character. One of the most common responses to difficulty is anger. In moments of frustration, we run the risk of making impulsive decisions that could impact the rest of our life. Instead of getting caught up in emotion, we should wisely be still and trust in the One who can work everything out for our good (Romans 8:28). In this world, troubles won’t vanish (John 16:33), but when storms are brewing on the horizon, buckle up and trust God to guide you through. Only in Him can we truly “cease striving.”

Psalm 46:10 means we should stop trying to manipulate our circumstances and instead allow God to work. Now, understanding a verse is one thing, but putting it into action can be something else entirely. So just how is a believer to “be still” and “cease striving?”

First, we must understand that the Lord is allowing our difficulties. If we believe that He is in control, then we must also believe He has permitted this event to happen.

Second, it may be hard to comprehend, but there is a purpose behind our trials, even when life seems confusing. God will not allow hardship to come our way without good reason.

Third, since there is a purpose for our hardships, then they have the potential to be positive experiences. This does not mean that everything will always work out perfectly, according to our own standards and plans. But, it does mean that if we respond correctly,

we may look back on the experience as a catalyst for growth in our spiritual walk.

Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” You may have heard this familiar verse many times. However, in order to maneuver successfully through life’s storms, we must understand its truth. God has not disappeared, and He is not ignoring us. He has a purpose in everything, even the most challenging of circumstances.

When conflict arises, we often want to rush in and defend our position. Perhaps we even feel justified in blaming others. However, James 1:19 gives different advice for dealing with tension and disputes: “Be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” In other words, more can be accomplished through a calm approach to the situation. Scripture also suggests that we:

Pray. First, we should ask the Lord to guard our mouth and give us the right words to speak (Luke 12:12). Also, we need to request discernment concerning the root issue and insight as to whether we might be at fault.

See things from the divine perspective. Our sovereign Lord works every situation for the believer’s benefit. Not only does God use difficulties to teach us, but He also allows us to demonstrate the life of Christ by the way we respond.

Forgive. Even if someone has hurt us by causing the conflict, we should forgive. Jesus died to pardon all of our sin, and we, in turn, need to forgive others. In fact, if we do not, our lives will become burdened by resentment and broken relationships.

Respond. If we have done something wrong, we should apologize and ask forgiveness. We can also express appreciation when another person takes time to share his concern, and we should affirm that we will carefully consider his/her comments.

How do we respond to conflict? May we pray for the strength to stay calm and do what is right, even during difficult, emotional situations. Selected

“Be still and know that I am God,” when aching burdens crush your heart ~ Then know I formed you for your part and purpose in the plan I hold. You are the clay that I would mold. Trust in ME!