Be still

As I waited and prayed for a word for this week, I hoped something would hit home relating to the holiday today. I would like to start by thanking anyone who has served, acknowledging and remembering those who have lost their lives in the line of duty and embracing the families who have sacrificed as well. Memorial Day is there so we REMEMBER all those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. I am grateful for living in the greatest country in the world and I do not take all the freedoms I have been given lightly.

I mentioned I hoped that I would have a word that pertained to the holiday today. Something patriotic yet spiritual all while honoring Memorial Day. God had different plans. I was given simply two words: Be Still. Sometimes what we want to hear from God is not what He has to say. While I know that God will surely bless our country and is near to those who are grieving and those who are remembering the fallen today, I think He wanted me to bring a different message. Be still.

This is a weekend plagued with cookouts, ATV rides, gatherings, parties, etc. This year, if we are following the correct guidelines to keep ourselves and others healthy, we will not be gathering, and if we are, it will distant. Psalm 46:10 tells us “Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations; I will be exalted in the earth.” Often this verse is simply quoted as “Be still and know.” So, while we take a day, that is supposed to be a remembrance, we should do so with stillness and while knowing who God is, has been, and is going to be. While we take a national holiday that is dedicated to remembering the fallen heroes who have protected our nation, we need to also remember He who is exalted in the nations and the earth.

I think being still, can bring things to light we never knew existed. It’s such a simple thing to do, yet something our society has taught us is not acceptable. We live in a world of constant growing, changing, moving, hustling and we hardly ever take time to be still. One of my favorite words in the Bible is Selah. Selah is like a break between the passages in the Psalms. I think of it as a breath in between these beautiful pieces of scripture. I have also read where some people interpret it as meaning “forever” some read it as “Amen”. Either way, I find it interesting and beautiful and unique because to me, it feels like where the Psalmist who has put their heart out there breathes a sigh of relief. Selah. It is where they decide to be still. When we are still, we hear God better. I heard someone say the other day that they have heard God each morning while being socially distant because they have been listening for Him and not doubting if it was Him that they heard.

I believe God is always working, even when we can’t feel it or hear it or see it. A lot of times we just need to be listening, expecting, knowing He is working and speaking. Knowing He is exalted and not doubting it.

So today, on this holiday that a lot of people have off, be still and know. God is exalted in the nations and earth. Be still and pray for the families of the fallen and thank God that we are free. Both physically and spiritually.

Selah. Be still in His presence.