Being Still In A Stillless World

A Devotion By

Pastor Bobby

It's incredibly difficult to remain still in today's fast-paced world. It seems as if everything is moving at 130 MPH, and standing still feels like getting run over. There are several reasons why the world feels this way, but I attribute it to two main factors. One is the cartoon SpongeBob, which I won't delve into in this devotional—though it's backed by actual studies, you can look it up. The second factor, which I will address in this devotional, is worry.

Worry is one of the main reasons it feels like we're standing still while the world races by at 130 MPH. There's a scientific explanation for this: worry leads to anxiety, which then makes us perceive the world as moving faster than it actually is. There are countless reasons why we all worry—about finances, work, health, loved ones, and more. I understand completely; my life isn't stress-free either. However, if we do nothing, worry will suffocate us. Have you ever felt this way? You're looking at your bills, start worrying about your finances, and suddenly you can barely breathe as you're having a full-blown panic attack. I've been there, and it's terrifying. It feels like you're being suffocated, you can't breathe, you can't think clearly, and as I mentioned earlier, it seems like the world is moving way too fast. If we let worry dominate our lives, it can overwhelm us. So, what can we do about worry?

The Bible provides clear guidance on handling worry. One of my favorite verses that illustrates this is Psalm 46:10 ESV, "[10] “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”

When I first encountered this verse in the context of worry, I, like many reading this devotional, wondered, "What does this have to do with worry?" Especially when considering the vast challenges of the world. Yet, Psalm 46:10 truly offers peace. Let's delve deeper into this scripture. The first instruction is to be still. This seems counterintuitive compared to how most people approach worry and the fast pace of life. However, when you're rushing, you often miss what's truly happening around you. That's why the first step is to slow down and be still. This allows your mind to focus on reality. In sports, calling a timeout is sometimes essential. It not only lets athletes catch their breath and hydrate but also helps teams understand what's happening on the field. We need this in our daily lives when dealing with worry. Worry and anxiety can distort reality. Slowing down and being still reveals what's real. For Christians, being still means more than just physical stillness.

As Christians, we acknowledge that God has done much for us. By being still and recognizing that God is God, we pause and reflect on everything He has done for us, both the significant and minor blessings in our lives. This encourages believers to stop striving, relinquish control, and find peace in God's sovereignty during turbulent times. It reminds us that throughout everything, God remains in control and acts according to His will, while also affirming His love and care for our well-being.

It's easy to get entangled in a web of worry. However, God is more powerful than any of our concerns. Therefore, let's pause and acknowledge the Lord's strength and power. By doing this, the world won't feel like it's rushing at 130 MPH.

So be still and remember all the blessings God has done in your life and let go of all the worry. Because He got this!