Seeking STILLNESS
Ephesians 14:13-14
If you have ever worked with me, or have known me for a while, you would know that I am not a person who tends to be still. It seems that I’m always moving and doing something. Even on vacation, I like to be mobile, chat with people, and have a plan for the day.
Over the course of my career, I have had the great opportunity to work in all the major cities across Canada. I can assure you they are not “still”. They are not quiet. There is always a certain hustle and bustle that is unique to each city. You can feel it, hear it, and see it.
As I reflect on the concept of stillness, it seems to me that we often equate the idea of being still with lack of productivity. We think of it as being lazy. Without purpose. Perhaps this is why we have such a tough time being still ourselves. We fill our days with activities, some important, and some not. We want to display that we are busy producing, and developing, and succeeding. Being still just does not show these things.
Q: How about you? Do you tend to be overly busy and avoid stillness?
Let’s face it, there’s much to be anxious about these days. There’s much to do. The world is travelling at a frenetic pace, and we fill out schedules just to keep up with it. However, as Christians, we are called to a different methodology. At times, we need to break away for a time of reflection and refreshing. To be still and calm and let God speak to us.
The STILLNESS of God is a profound and enigmatic concept that has captivated the hearts and minds of Christians through the ages. It is an idea that transcends religious boundaries and speaks to the deepest yearnings of the human soul. In a world that is filled with noise, chaos, and constant motion, the stillness of God offers a sanctuary of peace and tranquility.
When we speak of the stillness of God, we are not referring to a passive or indifferent state, but rather to a state of profound presence and serenity. It is the calm at the center of the storm, the quiet voice that whispers amidst the noise of life. In the stillness of God, we find a refuge from the busyness and distractions that so often overwhelm us.
One of the most beautiful aspects of the stillness of God is where we find it. It can be found in the simplest moments and the most ordinary places. Whether it is in the hush of dawn, the gentle rustling of leaves in a forest, or the silence that descends upon a bustling city at night, the stillness of God is ever-present, inviting us to pause, reflect, and connect.
In the stillness of God, we discover a depth of being that goes beyond words and concepts. It is a space of profound intimacy, where our hearts can rest and our souls can be nourished. In this stillness, we find solace from the demands and pressures of the world, and we are reminded of our inherent worth and dignity.
Q: When is the last time you were truly still before God? Where were you? What were your thoughts during that time?
On another note, the stillness of God teaches us the art of listening. In a world where everyone seems to be screaming to be heard, God's stillness invites us to be still ourselves and attune our hearts to the whispers of the divine. It is in these moments that we can truly hear the voice of God speaking to us in the depths of our being, guiding us, and offering us comfort and guidance.
Despite our struggle, God calls us to be still, and let him “do his thing “.
Exodus 14:13–14 (NLT) says, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the LORD rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The LORD himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”
Consider the stillness of God to be a treasure waiting to be discovered by those who seek it. It is a sanctuary of peace amidst the fight, struggle, and noise of the world; a refuge where our hearts can find rest. It is an ever-present invitation to be still, listen, and connect with our Heavenly Father. In the stillness of God, we find a profound sense of purpose, meaning, and belonging. May we all take the time to embrace this stillness and allow it to distract us from the noise of our lives.
My Prayer:
Heavenly Father, my world is filled with so much noise most days. I pray that you would cut through and remind me to be still as I seek your will and purpose for my life. I ask that you speak to me profoundly in these times. Amen.
Blessings As Always!
Steve Shrout
President, Corpath Forums
Email: president@corpath.ca
"Pursuing Excellence in Business, Life and Spirit
Special Note:
If you enjoyed today’s message, then share it with someone. Also, use this content and questions as a discussion guide in your next Forum Group meeting.
Attached to this is a printable PDF you can use to help with your meditation and reflection. I encourage you to print it, answer the questions and then keep it in a Corpath binder or folder for future reference and thought. You will receive a new PDF each week with each new Monday Meditation, and, over time, your binder will become a book representing your Corpath journey of BUSINESS thoughts, personal LIFE development, and SPIRITUAL growth.
