What does it mean to be still according to the Bible?

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, the concept of being still can seem foreign and elusive. Yet, the Bible repeatedly calls believers to embrace stillness as a vital practice for spiritual growth and communion with God. To be still, according to the Bible, is not merely an absence of physical movement or noise; it is a profound state of spiritual and mental tranquility where one can fully experience the presence of God.

One of the most well-known verses that encapsulate the essence of biblical stillness is found in Psalm 46:10: "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." This command to "be still" is more than a call to physical inactivity; it is an invitation to cease striving, to let go of our anxieties and preoccupations, and to recognize God's sovereignty and power. In the original Hebrew, the word translated as "be still" is "raphah," which can also mean to relax, let go, or to become weak. This suggests a surrendering of our own efforts and a trust in God's ability to act on our behalf.

The context of Psalm 46 is crucial for understanding this command. The psalm speaks of tumultuous times—natural disasters, wars, and chaos. Yet, in the midst of these troubles, God is portrayed as a refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). The call to be still, therefore, is a call to trust in God's protection and provision even when circumstances are overwhelming. This trust is not passive resignation but an active reliance on God's character and promises.

The theme of stillness is echoed throughout Scripture. In Exodus 14:14, as the Israelites stood trapped between the Red Sea and the approaching Egyptian army, Moses declared, "The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still." Here, stillness meant refraining from panic and trusting in God's deliverance. Similarly, in 1 Kings 19:11-13, the prophet Elijah experienced God's presence not in the powerful wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a gentle whisper. This narrative illustrates that God's voice is often heard in the quietness of our hearts, away from the noise and clamor of life.

Jesus himself modeled the practice of stillness. In Mark 1:35, we read that "very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed." Despite the demands of his ministry, Jesus prioritized time alone with the Father, demonstrating the importance of withdrawing from the crowd to seek God's presence. In another instance, after feeding the five thousand, Jesus "went up on a mountainside by himself to pray" (Matthew 14:23). These moments of solitude were essential for Jesus to commune with the Father and to gain strength for his mission.

For contemporary Christians, the practice of stillness can take various forms. It might involve setting aside regular times for silent prayer and meditation on Scripture. It could mean creating a quiet space in our homes where we can retreat from distractions and focus on God. The key is to cultivate an inner stillness that allows us to hear God's voice and to rest in His presence.

Christian literature also offers valuable insights into the practice of stillness. In his classic work "The Pursuit of God," A.W. Tozer writes, "God is here and He is speaking. These truths are back of all other Bible truths; without them there could be no revelation at all. God did not write a book and send it by messenger to be read at a distance by unaided minds. He spoke a Book and lives in His spoken words, constantly speaking His words and causing the power of them to persist across the years." Tozer emphasizes that God is continually speaking to us, but we must quiet our hearts to hear Him.

Similarly, in "Celebration of Discipline," Richard Foster discusses the discipline of solitude, which is closely related to stillness. He notes, "Loneliness is inner emptiness. Solitude is inner fulfillment." Foster argues that solitude is not about being alone but about being alone with God. It is in these moments of solitude that we experience the fullness of God's presence and gain clarity and strength for our lives.

The practice of stillness also has profound implications for our relationships and our witness to the world. When we are still before God, we are better able to listen to others, to respond with compassion, and to act with wisdom. Our stillness becomes a testimony to our trust in God and our reliance on His guidance.

In conclusion, to be still according to the Bible is to cultivate a state of inner peace and trust in God's sovereignty and presence. It involves setting aside time for silent prayer and meditation, creating spaces of solitude, and surrendering our anxieties and efforts to God. As we practice stillness, we open ourselves to hear God's voice, to experience His presence, and to be transformed by His love. In a world that is often noisy and chaotic, the call to be still is a profound invitation to find rest and renewal in the presence of our Creator.