What is your initial response when you face a challenging situation? Some people are overcome with fear thinking the worst and other people may become frantic with activity trying to solve the problem. The Psalmist offers us another alternative. Although he was facing significant challenges, this was his response,

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains quake at its swelling pride. Selah. (Psalm 46:2-3)

As you can see, he was describing some significant challenges. How was he able to face difficult times without fear? You too can learn how to face difficult times as you follow His example. The key is revealed in verse 10 as God now speaks and reveals the answer,

Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. (Psalm 46:10)

God’s advice is to stop and gain perspective. The words “cease striving” means to throw or cast down and it conveys the idea of relaxing or letting go. It is only when we are still that we can hear the still, small voice of God. Stillness enables you to hear from God and know Him in His fullness. When is the last time you were still and heard from God? We live in an age of dramatic distraction and it is in the silence that you can know God.

This is not simply knowing about God, but knowing God personally. What did the Psalmist learn as he ceased striving and was still? We see that he was able to reflect upon God’s nature and His promises,

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. (Psalm 46:1)

This verse was the inspiration for Martin Luther as he wrote the hymn, “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.” We not only get to know God’s promises, but we also learn of His power, Despite the chaos in the world, the Psalmist knew that God was in control,

The nations made an uproar, the kingdoms tottered; He raised His voice, the earth melted. (Psalm 46:6)

Finally, we see that knowing God enables you to rest in His abiding presence,

The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold. Selah. (Psalm 46:7 & 11)

When you face challenging situations, you do not need to know the details or even the reasons why. The key is knowing God. How is your knowledge of God? As you cease striving and get to know God, He can give you peace to face the challenges and uncertainties of this world. May you find comfort in knowing God and resting in His presence. God is in control and He is with His people.

(The beautiful calligraphy on this post was created by Ms. Jaimelyn Sapienza)

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

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