Be still, my friend and Listen

This morning I was reminded of the blessings God brings when we are still and we listen to Him. So often I get busy each day and focused on the to-do list or the demands of those responsibilities at work and home that I forget to be still. To listen. To calm my spirit for just a moment and hear God's voice. But when I do, I hear him and I am reminded of the peace, joy and protection he provides.

This morning I read Psalm 46:1-11 and again am reminded of the blessings God has for me and for those who listen for His voice. 

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts. The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Come and see what the Lord has done, the desolations he has brought on the earth. He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire. He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. (Psalm 46:1-11 NIV)

Acknowledging God each day in every trial and triumph allows us to be reminded that He is here on earth with us. He died so that we might experience His presence and protection in this life.  Unfortunately, we get too busy and don't take the time to sit, to breath and to hear what he has to say. I pray today for those of you struggling from an illness or a hardship that you stop and listen to God's word and find peace in Him. And for those who are embracing a triumph, remember to also be still and find joy in the One who brought you through.