Psalm 46:8-11
Come, behold the works of the Lord; see what desolations he has brought on the earth. He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire. “Be still and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations; I am exalted in the earth.” The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Psalm 46:8-11 (NRSVUE)
I wrote most of this devotion back in 2016 and I think it is just as relevant today as it was then. Most of us will agree that this political campaign is again one of the most consequential and divisive campaigns we have ever lived to experience. No matter whether you are a Republican, a Democrat, a Libertarian, or an Independent, what we are experiencing is very troubling, not just for today and for November 5, but for our entire future. And it is happening in the midst of two wars (Ukraine and Israel) and at least 2 hurricane disasters.
In this technological age we have become more aware than ever before that we are not an isolated country but one of many others and part of the entire world, sisters and brothers together or separated, but part of the whole.
So, how can we look upon these times? What do we need to be aware of most in these moments of confusion, doubt, angst, even despair? We have hoped and prayed that wars would cease, that all people would seek to live in peace with one another, that those in the greatest need would be helped by those with the most to share. And we do our part, small though it often is. But…..
“Be still and know that I am God” is a sounding call to bring peace to our hearts and minds in these hours and days. First, “be still.” Yes, quiet your heart and mind and focus in on God, the God we know of both power and patience, of grit and grace, and, most of all, of hope. And second, “know that I am God.” Reach deep into your life and spirit to describe and claim the God you know in Jesus Christ and who knows you so intimately and has promised to love you today, tomorrow and forever. And then again, “”be still.”
Questions for Reflection:
- Which is harder for you – to “be still” or to “know that I AM God”?
- How have you experienced God in your life?
- How have you seen God working in the world down through the ages? Even today?
- Can you “let go and let God” and trust the future to God? Not just your future but the future of the whole world?
Prayer:
Great, loving, and merciful God,
Be with each of us during these days of confusion and strife even more powerfully than you are with us during days of compassion and peace. Help us to know that no matter what happens YOU are here to continue to guide us, strengthen us, and move us toward the coming of the fullness of your kingdom in Jesus Christ. In Jesus’ name
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