In the Fast Lane: Psalm 46Sample

Psalm 46:10-11
New International Version

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."

11
The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Let me, first of all, say a very Happy New Year to you all!
May the Peace of God, which transcends understanding, be with you every set of the way in this new year.

I know that after all the festivities and celebrations of our New Year, fasting can be such a shock to the system, but it's not here to make your life miserable.

Fasting gives us the opportunity to lay aside distractions and focus on God in readiness for a new year.

Today and over the next two days, we will take a look at aspects of the above two verses from Psalm 46, Beginning with 'Be Still'!

Stillness is not something we find easily in modern-day life, yet it is essential for deepening a relationship with God.

The word 'Still' here in the original Hebrew means to:

• Let go!
• Relax!
• Abandon and refrain.

This is about ceasing from striving and entrusting yourself to God.

Entrusting your year to God and His care.

It is about relinquishing control of things that, in reality, we don't have control over anyway.

Too many of us don't mind having God as a passenger as long as we remain in the driver's seat. I have been there many times, but the reality is...I don't know what's best for me or my future, but the One who holds the future does.

Take a moment today, more than one if you can, to be still. What does this look like?

Find a quiet place, preferably sit, close your eyes to help avoid visual distractions and just very quietly express your love for Jesus. If you can only manage a minute, then that is better than nothing.

It is good for your soul to find a quiet place with God.

May you find a few times to do this over these days of prayer and fasting, and may this new year be a year where you take many opportunities to 'Be Still'!