How can we be still?

June 13, 2020

About the Author:  Sean O’Dell (21) is a senior at Purdue who is actively involved in Purdue Bands and Orchestras, Krannert School of Management, and Purdue CRU (formerly Campus Crusade for Christ). Sean is the son of long-time members Brian and Susan O’Dell as well as the grandson of Bob and Clair Tibbetts.

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 46:10

“Be still and know that I am God…”

It is highly likely that you have heard or read this verse before; after all, it is one of the most popular in the Bible. Right now, in the state of our world, it sure seems like a good one to remember. If you’re like me, you read this verse to remind yourself to relax and let God do the work. It does promote healthy rest in God. But, in some studying, I have found there is more to this verse: it is a call to “wake up” or “snap out of it” and realize who is on our side: the creator of the universe! Suddenly, this verse takes on a whole new meaning.

In early April, I “attended” a virtual gathering of college students throughout the nation for an event put on by Cru entitled Be Still 2020. Scrolling through my phone recently, I stumbled upon the notes I took during that event. I would love to share some of these ideas that promote rest in a God who is greater than we could ever fathom yet renew our energy to face this crazy world with a sense of confidence.

  • We have all faced cancelled events, opportunities, etc., but you are right on schedule with God; you are right where you need to be.
  • We may be stressed, but Jesus? He is calm.
  • The most miserable day in human history (Jesus’ death) is called Good! Surely, he will do something good with this time.
  • God never promised us a concrete plan for a year…or ten years. But He has ALWAYS promised us that he will give us what we need TODAY.
  • It is OK to freak out. It is OK to be anxious, to worry. But the enemy wants you to move into those places, decorate it and live there. Those places are OK so long as we look to a rock that is higher.
  • Being still means recognizing that God is on a mission and he cannot be stopped!

So – God’s message is two-fold. Carve out time to learn more about him, pray (perhaps for 8 minutes 46 seconds, as Jerry challenged us to do), and truly rest in his presence. But, be energized! Connect with friends and family, hone those new hobbies, love others, continue to protect our most vulnerable during this pandemic, stand alongside our black brothers and sisters, support the causes of those seeking to be equal in the eyes of man, knowing we are all equal in the eyes of God, and keep your eyes on God knowing that if you have signed up for a life with Jesus, you’re in a story that will not end. Be Still. Know – and be energized, reminded, encouraged – that he is God.

PRAYER:

Dear God,
Thank you for times of rest where we can look closer at our relationship with you and meditate on your presence.  May we always be mindful that you want us to BE STILL and truly KNOW that you are GOD.   A God of love, of mercy, of patience and who loves each of us just as we are.  We pray for healing in our country and around the world.  May we strive to be one world, one country and one people who love one another despite our differences.
In the name of your son Jesus I pray,
AMEN 

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