Read
Psalm 19:14 May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. (NIV)
Psalm 46:10 Be still and know that I am God. (NIV)
Reflect
The Evangelical Missionary Church of Canada’s past President, Phil Delsaut, often began his prayers with the phrase, “Lord you hear our prayers, not because they are eloquence of speech, but because you love us.” It always reminded me that our prayers were not about the words we speak but about the expressions of our hearts. I’m not sure about you but I know that my words are very limited in trying to express what is in my heart, both in good times and in bad times.
When we talk of silent prayer or quiet prayer, we still think of using words but just saying them in our heads and not speaking them out loud. Jesus warns us about using too many words and just babbling (Matthew 6:7). Have you ever thought of not using words and letting the meditation of your hearts speak to God?
Being still, without using words, can help us reflect on the majesty, power, beauty, love, and other characteristics of God. The command to “be still” in Psalm 46 has the concept of pursuing the knowledge and the heart of God, and not an emptying of the mind to find inner peace. The words “be still” in verse 10 are immediately followed by the instruction to know God. Prayer helps us grow in our knowledge of God and knowing the heart of God is what enables us to be still in his presence. Psalm 46 indicates, God is both powerful and kind. How can we help but “be still” in the presence of such a magnificent, loving God?
Practice being silent in God’s presence. Quiet reflection intensifies prayer as the mind is filled with thoughts of God. Allow your heart to meditate on the beauty, the power, the glory of almighty God, who lovingly comes to us as our heavenly Father.
Pray
Lord, thank you for enabling me to be still in your presence. You are my strength, and I trust in you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
