Be Still And Know

I guess I’m getting cranky in my older age, but some things bother me more than they used to. Quick movements and loud, sudden noises I’m not expecting are at the top of the list. In fact, I’m starting to see that I prefer it quiet. Loud blaring commercials on the television, obnoxious laughter from sitcoms, and game show sound effects grind my nerves. So much for my idiosyncrasies.

When I am a guest preacher, one of the things that I now ask about when leading prayer is, “Is the pianist or organist going to play while I pray?” If the answer is yes, then I’ll take it upon myself to ask him or her not to. Why? I think it distracts the conversation.

If we believe prayer is conversation with God (and I do), shouldn’t we tune in to God and tune out everything else? In fact… I’m convinced that at least half of the time (and probably more), we should be listening to God instead of talking. God has a lot to say to us if we'll listen rather than talk.

Perhaps Steven Curtis Chapman says it better (if you have Real Audio, you can hear the song here at Chapman’s website):

Be still and know that He is God
Be still and know that He is holy
Be still oh restless soul of mine
Bow before the prince of Peace
Let the noise and clamor cease

Be still and know that He is God
Be still and know that He is faithful
Consider all that He has done
Stand in awe and be amazed
And know that He will never change
Be still…Be speechless…

Be still and know that He is God
Be still and know He is our Father
Come rest your head upon His breast
Listen to the rhythm of
His unfailing heart of love
Beating for His little ones
Calling each of us to come
Be still. Be still. - Psalm 46:10 / Zec. 2:13

Pax,
Sky+