Day 16 | The Power of Stillness

Devotional Written By: Joshua Penn

“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the
earth!” The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah” ~Psalm 46:10-11

We live in a world and culture where there’s always a pull for your time and attention. It’s also
full of many distractions that cause us to overthink and even run aimlessly.

We also live in a world and culture where we’re constantly on “the go”.

Whether that be for work, school, family responsibilities, service at church, hobbies, and simply just the hustle and bustle of life. These demands can take a toll on you physically.

But what about a mind that’s at maximum capacity use each day?

Or a soul at war, whether you realize it or not?

With these responsibilities, physical demands, and a mind and soul in battle, life can at times
feel overwhelming and cause you to feel anxious.

So while the race of the mind begins, being in the quiet with God is essential. In fact, be
encouraged to make it priority.

It’s important that you set the tone for your day each and every morning.

First and foremost, our God who created time, is worthy of your time, and even desires to
spend time with you. Maybe this means rising before the family begins to wake up, before you
open that laptop, or before leaving the home.

Be still and sit with God without rushing. Get up, walk away, take a few deep breaths, and give
God your undivided attention.

Spend time reading the word of God (the Bible). In this, you’re reminded of how good God is,
the holiness and majesty of our King, and the peace of God that surpasses your own
understanding (Philippians 4:7).

In His word is where you’ll find rest in knowing these truths.

Slow down and meditate on His word. There you’ll see the grace of God, be reminded that all
things work together for your good, God is your strength and protection, and that God is your
peace.

Set aside time and put that task away in order to reset and be refreshed in Him who saved you!
In Him and in Him alone, is where you can find rest for your weary soul (Jeremiah 31:25). And in
doing so, He’ll give you strength and He will be exalted and glorified in your life.

Reflection Question

What distractions or daily pressures have been pulling your attention away from quiet time with God, and what intentional step can you take to create space to be still with Him?