In the admonition, "Be still, and know that I am God," an ancient Psalmist suggests a most helpful formula for living. When we have done all that seems humanly possible to find the way out of some difficulty, the steadfast affirmation of the Psalmist's words brings us to God, who knows and makes known the answer to all difficulties.
Too often we call upon God only as a last resort. We turn to Him only after we have tried everything else, and pray for a miracle. To put God first, last, and always is to live momently in His presence, to dwell in the consciousness that His Spirit within us is our answer to every need. God is the one activity at work in our life. In our mind, body, and affairs His activity produces the good results we desire. Where God is, there is healing power, there is divine guidance, there is harmonizing peace, there is abundant supply, there is fulfillment for every need.
Many times our greatest need is for stillness. When we have dissipated our spiritual and physical forces in negative thought, when we have wasted our energy in much talk about our difficulties, it is necessary that we relocate ourself in God. The first step in this direction is that of becoming still.
"Be still, and know that I am God." Knowing and feeling God's presence is the second step. God is where we are. We live, move, and have our being in Him. When all human avenues to our good seem to be closed, we only need to know that God's presence is within us, to feel His love enfolding us, His wisdom directing us, His power working in our life and affairs.
Dr. Ernest C. Wilson has often advised: "Go to God first, and then to man as God directs." Whatever needs you have, be assured that God can and will fulfill them through channels of His own choosing. Still your thoughts and emotions, calm your doubts and fears, and listen for the still, small voice of God's guidance within you.
In the silence that is true communion with God, He will show you clearly what you should do. If other persons are to be agents through which your good is to come, you will be directed to the right individuals and receive their help. If you are to "work out your own salvation," you will rejoice in the opportunity to prove the loving presence of God within you and demonstrate His unfailing power and willingness to fulfill every need.
We bless you in prayer as you learn to go to God first with your needs. May you abide continually in His presence, feel His love enfolding you, and see His power at work in your life.
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