Be Still

Normally I like to post things with more of a “Wake up O sleeper” type of vibe, but I think there’s a message we need to get through our heads as Americans: Be still. Believe it or not, there are a plethora of times in the Bible that we are told to rest or shut up versus when we are told to wake or speak up.

The first time this is alluded to in the Bible, I believe, is in Genesis 1. God SPOKE the universe into existence. It is my opinion that, if God's Word (Who John 1:1 tells us is Christ) holds the power of creation, then He is probably worth listening to. It is conceivable that God's words and thoughts are probably more important than ours.

Here are eight principles of sitting down and shutting up that we in this social-media permeated society need to embrace:

1. It is not about us. We need to let go of our pride and give glory to God. Psalm 46:10

2. We are not the champions of our lives. We must let Christ in us rule our lives and bring victory within us. Exodus 14:14

3. We cannot bring ourselves security. God alone is able to give us peace and rest. Psalm 62:5

4. Hurt cannot hold a place in our lives. We must let go of our hurt feelings and patiently seek after God. Psalm 37:7

5. We need to speak with our actions first. The world does not need our thoughts and opinions on everything. It needs our diligence and follow-through. 1 Thessalonians 4:11

6. We need to admit our shortcomings. When we turn from our destructive ways, sit down, shut up, and put our trust in God alone, God will empower us. Isaiah 30:15

7. We must be willing to be weak. When we admit our weaknesses - recognize the insults against us, admit we don't have control of our lives, accept the hatred and injustices that come against us, and welcome the difficulties in our lives - Christ can begin to show His strength in our lives. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

8. Our focus cannot be set on others' shortcomings. When it does, we condemn ourselves to revealing all of our shortcomings to the world. Matthew 7:3-5

As St. Francis of Assisi said, "Peach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words."

Discussion points:

What are some times that we really need to work on biting our tongues?

I once had a friend come to church with me because they were impressed that I never called them out on their cussing and lewd jokes, even though he was sure I was offended. What examples in your life do you have of speaking up doing more harm than good?

What times must we speak up? What is your Biblical reference?

Are there times when you were better served by someone's silence than their words? Were you hurting at the time?