He says, “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

We know that all things work together for good
for those who love God,
who are called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28

In my more anxious moments I am far from being still. The word “frantic” would be more accurate. Mentally I try to take back control from a situation, person or event that I perceive has threatened me or my happiness or my success. Frantic thoughts stir up feelings of desperation. Anxious thoughts bring on more anxious thoughts.

I remember describing to a counselor a situation I was deeply concerned about—actually, frantic over. After ten minutes she broke into my monologue and said one word, “Stop!” I was shocked into a moment of silence. “Has any of that happened to you yet?”

“No,” I had to admit. The mental storm was over, and I felt more peaceful.

God tells us, “Be still!”

“Be still before you get all worked up. Be still because I have your best interests at heart. Be still because you are my most treasured possession. Be still because I am God and can make all things—no matter how they appear to you—work out for your benefit.”

Lord, far too often my anxious thoughts hijack my peace of mind. Help me to hear you–and to still them. The future is in your hands and I can rest in that knowledge. Help me to trust you and to let go of my fears. Amen.

A reflective pause

• Go to a place where you can spend some time either paging through letters or photo albums or scrolling through photo galleries, emails, texts, or phone messages.
• Breathe deeply.
• Inhale and exhale. Notice any frantic thoughts of worries.
• Quietly bless them with Psalm 46: “Be still.”
• Imagine God placing his hand on your head and blessing you. “Be still.”
• Spend a little time looking through photos, letters, texts, emails, or listening to some voice messages, whatever you have. Look for evidence of how God has your best interests at heart. Something that surprised you unexpectedly. Someone who reached out when you needed it. A colleague or family member who sent a message that lifted your spirits. An offer that saved the day.
• Invite your heart to be still. Offer a word of gratitude to God.

To tuck in with you tonight

I trust, my God, that you have my best interests at heart.

by Sr Kathryn J. Hermes, FSP