Devotion: Reformation

Please take a moment to read Psalm 46.

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

Anyone who has spoken with me recognizes that my mind goes around and around. My thoughts are not often quiet. The pastors may advise me to stop watching and reading the news of America and our planet. But I can’t.

In the past year I have experienced much chaos in my life – moving to a new location, caring for my elderly mother, and dealing with medical issues that have caused sleepless nights. Again, I must trust and be still. But I cannot. My heart knows that God is a place of safety and shelter in times of distress. I know that I can find solace and strength in God. But my restless mind isn’t so sure.

Thankfully, God understands. The author of Psalm 46 reminds me of God’s message, “Be still, and know that I am God.” When I was in my twenties, I told my pastor that I tried to meditate by saying umm or humming, but I just couldn’t hear God’s words. He told me to simply listen – a task difficult for me.

I believe Psalm 46 encourages me to simply trust and live in the intimate relationship that a believer experiences when God dwells in her life. I must accept that God’s help is timely and constant even when I can’t see it. God is with me during those times when I worry about my future. Despite life’s chaos and the turmoil of unexpected problems, I do believe that God surrounds me. Be still, and know that I am God.

When I trust in God’s message, I am reminded that although the world is filled with noise, distractions, and turmoil, I will find peace and solace in His presence. When I trust in God’s power, I will find peace. When I seek refuge in our Lord’s promise, I will endure life’s trials and tribulations. Of course, this trust will not be easy for me. I am a sinner. My early life was filled with threats and instability. God knows that voices, fear, and pain haunt my brain. But I believe God understands and accepts me. God knows that my heart wants to be close to his teachings. Daily, I ask for His forgiveness and strength. Then when my mind spins, I will remember my Pastor Rothfuz’s advice: simply listen.

Dear God, I ask that you bring peace and stability to our world when the time is right. Dwell in my heart and fill it with peace. Quiet my mind so that I can hear your promises. Help me, Lord, to be still, and know that you are God.

Amen.

Written by Glenda Clare

Glenda and her husband, Steve, joined Sheridan Lutheran in the spring of 2003. They are in the process of making new friends and keeping active in their lives.