Be Still

Author: Pastor Kyle Torrence

Exodus 14:14 NIV—The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.

Pray.

Trust.

Be Still.

Repeat.

In Exodus 14:14, we find the Israelites are fleeing Egypt after Moses demands Pharaoh to let them go. After centuries of slavery, they begin their quest for freedom only to find themselves in a tough situation and questioning everything.

Life is hard. Really hard sometimes. I’ve often wondered how I could make it without a foundation in my faith. How do people go through life without knowing and trusting in God? I’ve always wrestled with this thought. More now than ever.

Doubt is something that has been placed in our minds from the very beginning of creation. Adam and Eve were the first to let doubt cloud their judgment. They allowed Satan to put doubt into their minds as to what God “really” said about eating the forbidden fruit. They lost their home, their ease of life, and God’s favor. They lost a lot that day. We all did.

I have learned that I need to do my part when I want answers or need God to step in and help. Here is a practical application for God to move in your life and your situation.

1. Pray. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18—“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

God hears you. He wants to hear from His children. You have a direct line to your heavenly Father so use it! He can handle hearing about your doubts or weaknesses. He knows your struggles. He knows your pain and is strong enough to handle your anger. He wants that communication from you. Every time you have a need or a thought throughout your day, go to Him in prayer. Don’t cease!

Philippians 4:6—“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.”

2. Trust. Proverbs 3:5—“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.”

This is where it gets tricky—trusting God’s timing and plan above ours. We cannot lean on our understanding of the situation but trust that God has a bigger/better plan than we could have imagined. Write this scripture on sticky notes, highlight it in your Bible, and make it seen anywhere that might help you remember to trust in God.

3. Be Still. Psalm 46:10—(He says) “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”

The words “be still” derive from the Hebrew word Rapha, which means to be weak, let go, release, or surrender.

Surrender is such a beautiful thing when we lay down our own plans or wants for what God has. When we surrender, we allow God to move according to His plan. His plan doesn’t have to follow our wants or demands, but it will always be perfect according to His will.

Pray.

Trust.

Be Still.

Repeat.

Reflection

Father God help us to be still when we are up against adversity. Help us to be still when we can’t see Your plan. We surrender to Your will for our situations and our lives. Amen.