“Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
1. Be still and know that I am God.
2. Be still and know that I am.
3. Be still and know.
4. Be still.
5. Be.
In moments of uncertainty or anxiety, I will write these 5 lines in a notebook and repeat it as many times as necessary, or until my hand gets tired. I learned this spiritual practice from a mentor of mine, former Upstate NY Synod Bishop Rev. John Macholz. The repetitive nature of this exercise made this single verse a mantra and the words are a comforting reminder. After writing and saying each line, we can remember specific truths about each line. Here are some of my thoughts which correspond to each of the above lines.
1. A reminder that God is God, we are not God, we are not the Creator, the Savior, the Almighty. God lovingly puts us in our place.
2. A reminder of all the “I am” statements from Jesus: I am the way, the truth and the life. I am the bread of life. I am the resurrection and the life. I am the light of the world…
3. A reminder of the value of our faith, that we may have confidence that God is in control.
4. A reminder that sometimes we need to stop moving and hustling and flailing to try to do or fix or change things that cause us anxiety. Sometimes we just need to be still, to breathe in the Spirit and allow God to do what God needs to do.
5. A reminder to be ourselves, beloved children of God, who are loved, redeemed, forgiven and sent.
This activity, this verse, and the entirety of Psalm 46 are particularly fitting for times of uncertainty. At the beginning of the season of Lent, I encourage you to sit with this activity as a prayer practice, using this verse and coming up with your own thoughts, or find a different verse. Immerse yourself in the Word, embrace the comfort and security given by God, and allow the Spirit to transform your heart and soul.
Pastor Sam