Finding Hope: Stillness #RTTBROS #Nightlight

RTTBROS

Finding Hope: Stillness #RTTBROS #Nightlight The Sacred Art of Being Still "Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth." - Psalm 46:10 (KJV) In our fast-paced world, filled with constant noise and distraction, God extends a profound invitation: to be still and know Him. This stillness is not mere inactivity, but a deliberate posture of heart and mind that allows us to experience God's presence in each moment. Let's explore how we can cultivate this sacred stillness in our daily lives. Reflection The practice of being still before God is a powerful antidote to the anxiety and restlessness that often plague our souls. We are often "crucified between two thieves" - the guilt and regrets of the past, and the fears and worries about the future. Yet God calls us to a different way of living - fully present in each moment, aware of His constant presence. The Psalmist declares, "This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it" (Psalm 118:24, KJV). This verse isn't just about occasional celebration, but a daily practice of recognizing God's handiwork in every moment. When we cultivate this awareness, we begin to see each day, each hour, as crowned with God's presence. God desires to walk with us, much like He did with Adam in the cool of the day in Eden (Genesis 3:8). He wants to teach us to experience fully each blessing and gift He sends our way. From the grandeur of a sunset over the ocean to the quiet beauty of a star-strewn night sky, from the majesty of mountains to the delicate intricacy of a flower - all of creation calls us to pause, to observe, and to stand in awe of our Creator. This practice of stillness and presence is not just about appreciating nature. It's about cultivating a constant awareness of God's presence in every aspect of our lives. It's about learning to lean on Him in quiet trust, moment by moment, regardless of our circumstances. Application 1. Practice Daily Stillness*: Set aside time each day for silent reflection and prayer. Start with just a few minutes and gradually increase the duration. 2. Mindful Observation: Take a "wonder walk" each day. Observe nature closely, looking for signs of God's creativity and care. 3. Present Moment Awareness: When you find your mind drifting to past regrets or future worries, gently bring your focus back to the present moment. Remind yourself of God's presence right here, right now. 4. Gratitude Pauses: Several times throughout the day, pause to thank God for something in your immediate environment or experience. 5. Scripture Meditation: Choose a short verse (like Psalm 46:10) to meditate on throughout the day. Let it remind you to be still and aware of God's presence. Prayer Heavenly Father, in the busyness and noise of our lives, teach us the sacred art of being still. Help us to quiet our hearts and minds, that we might sense Your presence in each moment. Free us from the tyranny of past regrets and future anxieties, and grant us the grace to live fully in the present, where You dwell. Open our eyes to see the daily gifts of Your creation, and open our hearts to receive Your constant love. May our lives be a testimony to Your presence, as we learn to be still and know that You are God. In Jesus' name, Amen. Dig Deeper 1. Read Exodus 14:13-14. How does Moses' instruction to the Israelites relate to the concept of being still and trusting God? 2. Reflect on 1 Kings 19:11-13. What does Elijah's experience teach us about how God often speaks to us? 3. Consider Matthew 6:25-34. How does Jesus' teaching about worry relate to the practice of being present in each moment? 4. Think of a time when you felt especially aware of God's presence. What were the circumstances? How can you cultivate more of those moments in your daily life? 5. In what areas of your life do you find it most challenging to "be still"? How might you invite God's presence into those areas?