Be Still and Know God: Finding Peace in a Busy World

Bible Topics

Oct 16

Introduction: The Struggle of Stillness in a Busy World

We live in a world of constant noise, pressure, and distraction. Between deadlines, screens, and responsibilities, stillness can feel nearly impossible. Yet the Bible invites us - commands us - to “Be still, and know that I am God”(Psalm 46:10).

But what does that mean, and how can we actually live it out?

This study explores what the Bible teaches about being still, why it’s vital for spiritual health, and how to cultivate stillness even in the midst of a busy life.

Key Verse: 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!”
(Psalm 46:10, ESV)

Word Study (Concordance Insight):

“Be still” – Hebrew: raphah (רָפָה) – meaning to let go, relax, stop striving (Strong’s H7503).
“Know” – Hebrew: yada (יָדַע) – to know deeply, by experience and relationship (Strong’s H3045).

Key Takeaway: “Be still” is not passive; it means surrendering control and actively trusting in God’s sovereignty.

Why Stillness Matters Spiritually

1. Stillness Builds Trust in God

“In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.”
(Isaiah 30:15)

We often rely on ourselves. Stillness resets our dependence on God.
In silence, we learn to hear His voice rather than the noise of culture.

2. Stillness Reflects God’s Peace

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
(Philippians 4:7)

Peace isn’t found in productivity - it’s found in presence.
Stillness creates space for the peace of God to guard our hearts.

3. Stillness Prepares Us to Listen

“Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.”
(1 Samuel 3:10)

In a world of distraction, listening to God requires intentional focus.
Stillness helps us hear His specific guidance for our lives.

COMMENTS:

I think our special relationship with God through Prayer and time in His Holy Word requires us to Stop, Be Still & Be Quiet to allow Him to speak to us and give us His special message for the day.

Supporting Bible Texts on Stillness & Knowing God

Exodus 14:14

Summary - “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
Application - God fights our battles - our role is to trust, not strive.

Mark 1:35

Summary - “Jesus went to a solitary place to pray.”
Application - Even Jesus practiced solitude amid ministry.

Psalm 62:1

Summary - “My soul waits in silence for God only…”
Application - Stillness is the posture of waiting and trusting.

Lamentations 3:26

Summary - “It is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.”
Application - Patience and stillness go hand in hand.

Habakkuk 2:20

Summary - “The Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him.”
Application - Reverence before God starts with silence.

How to Practice Stillness in a Noisy World

Here are practical, biblical ways to be still and know God daily:

1. Set Daily Quiet Time

Jesus woke early to be alone with God (Mark 1:35).
Start your day with 10–15 minutes of silence, prayer, or Scripture reading.

2. Unplug Intentionally

Take regular digital Sabbaths: no phone, email, or social media for a set time.
Use this time to reflect, pray, or journal.

3. Practice Breath Prayer

A simple way to calm your spirit and invite God's presence.
Example: Breathe in -“Be still…” / Breathe out -“…and know that I am God.”4. Memorize & Meditate on Key Verses

Hide Psalm 46:10 or Isaiah 26:3 in your heart.
Recite them in moments of stress or restlessness.

5. Sabbath Rest

One day a week, rest from work and production, and focus on worship, family, and spiritual renewal.

“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” (Exodus 20:8)

Replace Busyness with Being

Busyness doesn’t equal fruitfulness. In Luke 10:38-42, Martha was busy, but Mary was still, sitting at Jesus’ feet.

Jesus said, “Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:42)

Final Reflection

To "be still and know" God is not just about physical silence. It’s about:

Letting go of control
Trusting God's sovereignty
Creating margin to hear His voice

In a chaotic world, stillness is a spiritual rebellion against distraction. It's a return to what matters most: knowing God.