Monday, November 21, 2022  

Today’s Scripture Reading
Psalm 46

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea;

though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult.

There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High.

God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved; God will help it when the morning dawns.

The nations are in an uproar, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts.

The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.

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. (NRSV)

Reflection

I found myself nodding along as I read this psalm. Waters roaring? Check. Mountains quaking? Check. Nations in uproar? Double check. It’s almost eerie how accurate a literal reading of this passage is given the headlines I see when I check the news each morning.

I suspect many of us can also relate to a metaphorical reading of this text in our personal lives. Facing an illness in the family or the end of a relationship can feel like the very earth giving way beneath our feet. Although I am prone to perfectionism and enjoy the illusion of control, these were times when it became frighteningly clear that I am not in control — and the harder I tried, the worse things seemed to get.

But verse 10 always stops me in my tracks. Be still. It doesn’t get simpler than this: Be still, and know that I am God. With just one verse, the Lord gently puts us in our place and reminds us who is actually in control. Sometimes all we need to do is let go and let God do what only God can do.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to be still in times of trouble so that I may hear the still, small voice reminding me that it’s not all up to me—thank God! Amen.

Written by Alisa Rantanen, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

Devotion index by date

Please email me daily devotions