It truly is wonderful that we can “stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord.” It is all too easy to try to take control of situations and strive to work them out in one’s own strength. How peaceful to just rest in Him, trusting in His love and care for us!
In Isaiah 30:1515For thus saith the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: and ye would not. (Isaiah 30:15) we read, “In returning and rest shall ye be saved, in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength.” And, too, in Psalm 46:1010Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. (Psalm 46:10): “Be still, and know that I am God.” How interesting that David has very little to say after that. He continues just briefly by praising God for His faithfulness and then His song is over: “I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah” (Psa. 46:10-1110Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. 11The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah. (Psalm 46:10‑11)).
David found his highest occupation. After meditating on the love, strength and faithfulness of his Lord, he has nothing more to say. There is a little hymn that is sometimes sung: “Be still and know that I am God, I am the Lord that healeth thee. I love thee with a steadfast love, My boundless mercy shall endure. In Thee, O Lord, I put my trust.”
Singing that little hymn to oneself when assailed by troubled thoughts and disturbed by things that are going on around is very comforting. How nice to have such verses and hymns to turn our eyes to the One who loves us with an everlasting love!
D. Barr (adapted)