Large painting, Forrest Hill Presbyterian Church
A friend messaged me the reference 'Psalm 46:10' yesterday. I'm not great with numbers so I had to look it up to remember what it was precisely. Like a good pastor my well-thumbed Bible was within arm's reach. Yes, impressive I know.
Most of you will remember this rather large painting as it hangs in the worship centre at FHPC, having been professionally restored in recent years. These words have power. I was reminded of them yesterday, so I remind you today. You're welcome.
The power of these words that in the midst of the tumult, God's stillness can prevail, might bring us a deep peace. Psalm 46 addresses the two sources of chaos and destruction that were most feared in the ancient world, the 'waters' and the nations.
The foundations of the earth were thought unstable, evidenced by storm, flood or earthquake. The nations surrounding Israel were known to be generally hostile, and to be regarded with concern. Yet the psalmist cries out;
‘Be still, and know that I am God!
I am exalted among the nations,
I am exalted in the earth.’ (v10)
What has changed my friends? The nations are still a cause for concern, political instability and the rise of malign superpowers continue. The randomness of nature and awesome forces of this planet, fueled by the amplification of climate change reminds us that all is not well in the creation.
The challenges and anxieties exacerbated by 76 days of lock down and by the pandemic itself are still with us. Yet we can meditate upon those words; ‘Be still, and know that I am God!' Whatever the world can throw at you, God is enough.
I was reminded yesterday to be still, and so I spent a little while in silence allowing the words to sink in, and moving my prayer-thoughts to the goodness and reliability of God in all things. Whatever the world can throw at you, God is enough.
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