“Be still and know that I am God,” is one of the most well known and beloved Bible verses for many. I was surprised to know the meaning of the words be still (particularly in the New Testament) and believe it will surprise you too.
(Watch, listen, or read.)
The words be still in the English dictionary can mean not moving, and being quiet. From a biblical perspective, these two words take on much greater meaning.
Meaning One: Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10
The first meaning comes from the Old Testament and the verse from Psalm 46:10, Be still and know that I am God. God is defending His city and people. The Hebrew definition is to stop striving, to let go, surrender. The chapter begins and ends with God is our refuge.
We can take comfort in letting go and resting in God to provide help, strength and safety.
Meaning Two: Peace! Be still! Mark 4:39
A sermon at church focused on the passage from Mark, Chapter 4, where Jesus uses the words, “Peace, be still!” (The exclamation point is there for a reason.) I was surprised and actually had to laugh when our pastor illustrated the literal meaning of be still.
The story is also told in Matthew and Luke which portrays an extremely busy day where Jesus was healing people, casting out demons and speaking. While the scripture doesn’t say this, the picture is painted that Jesus was exhausted and overwhelmed. He requested a boat to escape the crowds that were coming to him.
On the journey, a huge storm rolled in. The disciples were afraid for their lives. They looked for Jesus to help them and found him fast asleep from exhaustion. They were terrified because of the storm and woke Jesus up. According to Mark’s account, Jesus was not happy. In his frustration he yelled, “Peace, Be Still!” The storm and the huge waves stopped immediately. The literal translation of, be still, taken from the Greek, is: Hush! And in modern terms: Shut Up!
Another pastor I met told me about that translation and used the analogy of the proverbial, family road trip. You know the one, with the kids in the back seat saying, “Are we there yet? Are we there yet? Are we there yet?” The answer, of course, is be still or hush!
How often do we ask God for everything, but we don’t stop to listen or to be still? The act of being still and getting quiet becomes more of a challenge in our hectic world. The world asks us to be busy. God asks us to be still so that we can receive love, peace and guidance.
Along with busyness comes the fearful and anxious thoughts we hold onto. It’s been stated that we have upwards of 50,000 thoughts a day. Those thoughts aren’t always pretty. You know the ones, I can’t believe I messed up, I’m an idiot, I can’t do it, It’s too hard, I’m a failure, I’m a fraud, I’m too old, I’m too young…..
We must learn to tell our fearful and anxious thoughts to shut up, just as Jesus calmed the sea. Jesus immediately asked the question to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Have you so little faith?”
Quieting the mind, shutting up the mind requires practice. One powerful way to shut up thoughts that don’t serve us is by practicing meditation.
For whatever reason, meditation has not been a mainstay of traditional Christian, religious organizations. Prayer and Bible reading are encouraged as well as the occasional mention of contemplative prayer, but not so much meditation. Jesus, John the Baptist and others went off to meditate and to take themselves away from the hectic world.
Romans 12:2 says, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. Meditation helps to renew the mind, to be still, to let go and surrender, to shut up the thoughts that do not serve us.
Many people are intimidated by silence. Silence can cause you to address issues that you might be running from. It’s easy to fill each day with busyness and then block out concerns through hours of mind-numbing television viewing, Internet surfing or reading magazines. None of these activities are bad. However, if they are used to fill a void that is not being filled, over time, the toll will manifest itself in the form of lost relationships, lost opportunities and lost dreams never being fulfilled.
The next time you have fearful and anxious thoughts that are raging within you like a violent storm, do as Jesus did. Silence those thoughts by saying, “Peace, be still.” When you need strength and help, let go and rest in God, your refuge. “Be still and know that I am God.”
It’s not easy to be still in our fast-paced culture. The Be Still meditation CD or digital downloads will help. Listen to a sample and read what others have experience through this meditation using Psalm 46:10. Books and meditations are available at the Joy and Flow Store.
If you enjoyed this post, you can receive a short message of encouragement and inspiration along with a Bible verse each Monday to meditate on throughout the week.
Jackie Trottmann
February 21, 2016 10:26 amHi David,
Thank you for sharing your story here. May God continue to give you peace, strength and healing. Indeed, we are never alone.
Sending continued thoughts and prayers your way. For those reading, please lift up David in your thoughts and prayers too.
Jackie
David Napier
February 21, 2016 6:39 amI have been in ER twice this week, the second time they were doing an ECG but I have a progressive incurable autoimmune condition so my muscles were in tremor in my legs not for the first time I heard the words Be still and know that I am God, my legs stopped there tremor and the ECG was taken it was negative but I still have some hurdles ahead but I am not alone, and never have been, thanks….
Jackie Trottmann
January 7, 2016 2:23 pmHi Narendra,
Thank you for reading and for sharing your experience with the verse. I’m glad I was able to offer you some meaning.
Don’t rush. Be Still : )
Jackie
Narendra Singh
January 7, 2016 1:56 pmI am not a Christian but my daughter went to a preschool in a nearby church. They have “Be Still and know I am God” written on one of the walls. I always found it so powerful, especially in the mornings when I am rushing to work, this kind of helped me calm down. Got interested in the meaning and was directed to your blog. Thanks for taking the time to share the meaning and perspective.
Jackie Trottmann
December 9, 2015 11:25 amHi Gary,
Thanks for commenting. Good questions. I by no means have the answers, but I will share my thoughts on the “voices.”
There are lots of voices that we listen to, internally and externally. The external voices are the voices of our culture telling us what to be, do and have. They can be the voices of teachers, pastors, doctors, parents, spouses. These voices may or may not have our best interests at heart.
I believe that we ultimately have a still small voice within us. It is our true essence, our spirit. It’s who we are, not the color of our hair or how tall we are. This voice is the voice of truth. I believe that children know this. Unfortunately, they’ve been taught to “be seen and not heard.” Many times we silence the voice of truth in children. To your point. Yes, I believe we do a disservice to our children if we don’t allow them to be guided by their hearts (head secondary).
Since this post is on being still, the power in being still allows the ability to listen. The “Wow, I’m such an idiot” voice is the voice of the critic. We all have an internal critic. So, can that voice be swatted away with a response like, “Wait a minute, I’m not an idiot,” – most definitely. I think that’s the good and bad voices you described. Or, with discernment, did the voice come from a parent that called you an idiot, or a teacher that called you an idiot, therefore wounding your spirit?
Being still allows you to step back and observe the chatty mind. Being still allows you to clear out the chatty cluttered thoughts to create space for peace and discernment. The mind is extremely powerful. What we focus on can manifest any number of outcomes, good or bad. If we focus on anxiety, we will get anxiety, if we focus on peace we will have peace. 2 Timothy 1:7 says, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 2:7 says, “The Lord will give you understanding in all things.”
God gave us powerful minds, hearts, feelings and intuition. When we vet decisions through these areas, we can make the best decisions possible. Jesus said, “You will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” The voice we need to seek is truth. Any bad decision I’ve made causes a restless spirit within me. So, the voice of truth is what I seek.
1 Corinthians 2:10 says, “These things God has revealed to us through the Spirit; for the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.” And 2:14-16 “Those who are spiritual discern all things, and they are themselves subject to no one else’s scrutiny. For who has know the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.”
What a mantra that is, I have the mind of Christ!
Thanks again for the great questions.
Peace,
Jackie
gary
December 8, 2015 11:52 pmBut how do you know that the voices your hear in your “heart” (head/brain) are invisible spirits; God or Satan? Isn’t it entirely possible that both the “good” and the “bad” voices you hear are simply YOU talking to yourself? Human beings have internal conversations with themselves all day long:
“Wow. I am such an idiot. That was really a dumb thing to do.”
or
“Wow. I sure did a good job today. My productivity is the best in the office. I hope the boss notices.”
Aren’t we doing a real disservice to our children by teaching them to listen for unidentified voices in their heads (hearts) to guide them in life instead of developing their own ability to make good, sound decisions?
Jackie Trottmann
November 10, 2015 9:17 pmHi James,
Thank you for reading and for commenting. Obviously, you have given much thought to no thought. :)
Peace,
Jackie
James
November 1, 2015 9:54 am“Be still and know that I am God”. It is stillness of Consciousness known in the ancient Vedic Civilization, i.e. Vedas as Turiya, the 4th state of consciousness beyond waking, dreaming or sleeping. Here, at the SOURCE of thought is no thought at all. The experience of turiya is that the infinite Self has detached itself to the objective/thought world. The obj/thought world is BOUND…thoughts are specific in the Matter, Energy, Space and Time (MEST) Universe. Here the Self is attached and over-shadowed by the object of perception…we call this ‘waking state’ where the Self remains unknown to the Self. But by transcending the MEST universe, the Self is experienced, finally, as separate from the object of perception. Here, we go from the mortal world to the immortal, from finite to infinite.
Jackie Trottmann
July 29, 2015 11:51 amHello Pastor,
Thank you so much for visiting (I hope you return – or sign up for The Guided Life ezine – I know pastors need lots of encouragement too!) and for letting me know that this post was helpful. I’m certain that God will give you a wonderful message to share with your congregation.
Peace and blessings,
Jackie
Siaffa Korkoyah
July 29, 2015 11:11 amHello,
I am the founding pastor of Foundation in Christ Fellowship Ministry in Liberia,West Africa.I was in my closet asking God for a message for my congregation for this coming Sunday,the 2nd of August.The Lord took me to Psalm 46:10:”Be still and know that I am God.”While reading from many different sources in preparation for my sermon,I came across your very beautiful lesson.Thanks so much.I have learnt a great deal from your lesson.It has been very helpful to me.
Jackie Trottmann
May 21, 2015 9:27 amHi Constance,
Thank you for reading and for sharing. Even though you might not have known what God meant by giving you that verse, you let that verse seep into your heart and spirit through the years. The result was that you were open and that God was in charge working on your behalf. I love finding the meaning of words and especially translations (like learning about the Greek translation in this verse). However, and that’s a big however, I’ve also been disappointed reading a Bible commentary on a specific verse and finding the meaning to be very different from what I thought it meant. The beauty of the Bible being the “living Word” is that it can mean a lot of different things as we are open to God’s Spirit speaking to us. I’m glad this resonated with you. Keep listening! :)
Peace and blessings,
Jackie
Constance Obiodu
May 21, 2015 4:03 amGod spoke PS 46:10(Be still and know that I am God) to me years back. I didn’t understand nor ask further what He meant. A lot has happened to me showing that He is in control. Now i know better. Thank you for sharing this. Remain blessed!
Jackie Trottmann
May 5, 2015 2:28 pmHi Anthony,
Thank for taking the time to comment and for sharing your experience. Psalm 46 is an amazing Psalm. Dreams are really important, so pay attention to those. You know, most of the time when God calls people the response is, “Really? Me?!” :) But the question really is, “Why not you?” “Why not me?” We are not to think small. I pray that you would “be still” and discern what it is that you are to do. Whenever I was out of work, God has always provided. Continue to trust, be still and surrender. Keep us posted please on what happens!
Peace, courage and blessings to you,
Jackie
Anthony
May 5, 2015 2:12 pmI am so glad that I was lead to this post. 3 weeks ago the Lord put to sleep and showed me a vision of the future, with me being in ministry, I accepted the call to ministry when He woke me back up. I am only 20 years old and have never seen myself as a minister so I’m thinking, “Really? Me?!” Later on that day I was laid off my job, for reasons unjustifiable (I live in TN), since then I have been in God’s face which I discovered is where He wanted me. Last night in particular I was praying on what scripture He would have me read and He spoke Psalms 46. I still do not have a job, but I am now encouraged to be still and know that He is God and put it all in His hands. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS ARTICLE! Glory be to God!
Jackie Trottmann
April 28, 2015 8:05 pmThank you for commenting. You will be able.
Peace to you,
Jackie
KarVer
April 27, 2015 8:13 amGod I feel is telling me this today. Thanks for the help in understanding it. This site help. Now if I am able…
Jackie Trottmann
February 14, 2015 9:34 amThank you Parsa for sharing. I agree with you. The way you broke out each word is so simple, yet so powerful. I believe this is why so many people know and love this verse. It is the foundation of the spiritual life in God. That is to be still, to step away from the busyness and distractions of life in order to know God on a deeper level. And yes, as you said, eventually one life. Our suffering comes when we feel like we are separate from God and not one.
Thanks again for saying it so beautifully.
Jackie
Parsa Peykar
February 12, 2015 5:31 pmI believe this is the most powerful sentence ever spoken. All the words mean the same thing and eventually one life. Be/ Still/Know/I am/God
Jackie Trottmann
October 8, 2014 12:34 pmHi Mariam,
Thank you for taking the time to comment and for sharing. Forgiveness is tough. We can’t change whatever happened, but we can accept it. The next part is to let it go. May you fully heal and continue to move forward.
Peace,
Jackie
mariam utlwang
October 8, 2014 1:50 amThank you for the denifinition of Psalm 46: 10, the words “Be still and know that i am God” came at a time when i was battling with unforgiveness for something that happened to me but i am starting to heal and let go.
Jackie Trottmann
October 1, 2014 3:49 pmHi Gesille,
Thank you for the comment. I use the term “thanks a million” a lot, so that made me smile. I mentioned below that I was traveling, so sorry to just be responding. When my pastor mentioned the Greek meaning, it was so profound that I had to share. It’s not surprising that this is one of the most beloved verses in the Bible.
Continued peace to you as you experience God’s presence.
Jackie
Jackie Trottmann
October 1, 2014 3:41 pmHi Tia,
Thank you for taking the time to comment and for sharing that this helped you. When we seek we find, so I’m glad that you found the article. If you are walking with Jesus you will ALWAYS be learning and seeking understanding. I know I am.
Peace and blessings,
Jackie
Tia Rogers
September 30, 2014 1:15 pmThank you for clearing that up for me. I truly believe The Lord lead me to this article. I was praying for Him to show me what this passage meant. I used to sit and get frustrated waiting to hear God’s voice speak to me, however it was my lack of knowledge and understand of what “peace Be still and know that I am God” really meant. Again thank you for clearing that up and making into simple turns especially for someone such as myself who is still learning to walk with Jesus and understand His word.
God Bless!
Gesille Hamilton
September 25, 2014 2:14 pmThanks a million times Jackie for this psalms 46 meaning, I have meditated on it many times and it really does bring more clarity to the meaning. I really needed this I was feeling fearful and anxious about a situation, but now I know to hush and really rest in the Lord. I have completely surrendered it to God and I feel his presence and peace for me now.
Jackie Trottmann
June 21, 2014 10:16 amHi Mia,
Thank you for sharing. I’m glad that the site has been of encouragement to you.
Peace and comfort to you and your community.
Jackie
Jackie Trottmann
June 21, 2014 10:01 amHi Daniel,
Thank you for sharing here. I’m glad that the article spoke to you. I would absolutely surrender to God what is on your heart. (Easier said than done, I know.) “Show” your loved ones the man of God that you are by exuding the fruits of the Spirit in your life. You don’t need to tell them. Your actions will speak louder than words.
Peace, patience and courage to you.
Jackie
mia
June 21, 2014 9:47 amThank you for this.continue to do the work. Your words will touch a community during from cancer today in Los Angeles.So glad i was lead to your site.
daniel
June 20, 2014 12:32 pmI was thinking of my sister and this scriptre popped in my head but I couldn’t remember where it was found. When I searched this article popped up. I came to God a year ago and my wife and daughters do not live for God. god has been speaking to me about not totally giving them over to him so your first definition really spoke to me about surrendering. Ty.
Jackie Trottmann
June 18, 2014 11:38 amHi Ernestine,
Thank you for taking the time to comment and for sharing such a lovely story. The more I connect with people, the more I learn how Psalm 46:10 resonates with them in so many special ways. Please feel free to share your poem here or you can email me through the Contact Us form. I’d love to see it!
Peace and blessings to you,
Jackie
Ernestine Middleton
June 18, 2014 11:28 amAbout 2 weeks ago as I first woke up from sleep, God spoke to me and said “Be still and know that I AM God” and that is all He said. I have been wrestling with the long unemployment of my son and trying to encourage him. Long story short, I did a commentary on being still for a radio show I co-host and a few days later I wrote a poem which I heard in my spirit on meditation. I thank God for you and that I found this site and I plan to purchase the CD as soon as I can. I would love to share the poem entitled “Meditation” with you. Again thank you for sharing your gifts with the body of Christ!
Jackie Trottmann
May 28, 2014 3:59 pmHi Lisa,
Thank you for commenting. I don’t believe in chances. “Searching” on the internet is a beautiful metaphor as in Matthew 7:7, “Ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find.” It makes my heart glad that this was the exact message that you needed to hear and that you searched and found it here. God bless you too!
Jackie
lisaO
May 28, 2014 12:48 amThank you for this post. I came across this by chance or so I thought but now I know I was lead by the Holy Spirit. This is EXACTLY A what I needed to hear :) God bless you!
Jackie Trottmann
May 22, 2014 1:04 pmHi Pete,
Thank you for taking the time to comment and for using so few, eloquent words to express your opinion. I’m assuming you are searching for something meaningful to your faith, which is what brought you here. May you find what you are seeking to bring you more enlightenment instead of more twaddle.
Peace,
Jackie
Pete Smith
May 22, 2014 12:12 pmWhat a load of absolute twaddle – and how typical of the gobbledook produced by the religious cognoscenti.
Jackie Trottmann
May 9, 2014 5:35 pmHi Kent,
Thank you for taking the time to comment and for the compliment of powerful teaching coming from a pastor. :) That means a lot! Well, it’s funny – when I went from the buying side of the advertising business to the selling side selling radio, I understood what people said to me. Sales people would always tell me how unusual I was because I always returned their calls. It was a rude awakening when people didn’t return my calls! So, I feel the same way with my writing. If someone takes the time to read my post and comment, or responds to my emails, it’s only common courtesy to respond. I plan to always answer each comment unless it becomes impossible to do so. Thank you again for noticing that. Thank you for the blessing. May you be blessed in return.
Jackie
Keent Mitchell
May 9, 2014 4:54 pmPowerful teaching, but I was drawn to comment for another reason. I am truly blessed by the fact that you have taken the time to answer each and every response, as a pastor I know how much that really means. May God richly bless and keep you as you continue to serve Him! – Kent
Jackie Trottmann
May 5, 2014 11:29 amThank you for commenting. You’ve certainly given this a modern metaphor relating to a different type of storm. Keep us posted on what happens after the storm.
Peace to you,
Jackie
Cheryl Smith
May 5, 2014 11:19 amBeing audited by the state in our small construction business in less than two hours from now. Someone sent me this web address. We missed some steps. Have felt “STORM” for a number of days now.
This page is very helpful. It’s not offering a blanking-out kind of ‘nirvana’ so-called peace. It’s real peace from our Savior in the midst of the storms of this life….peace that passes all understanding….no matter what the cause.
I WILL trust You, Lord….. that even in judgement or chastisement….that You remember mercy. Once again, grace is the undeserved thing I’m asking for today.
Jackie Trottmann
April 30, 2014 11:01 amHi Sharon,
I’m glad that you found the scripture helpful. A few weeks ago I was shocked when my pastor shared that his parents are still waiting for him to “come to his senses” over leaving his lucrative career in sales to become a minister. I think it’s been over 10 years. He is SO gifted as a preacher. My prayer is that you will find discernment. My husband was the one that told me to quit my successful marketing consulting and sales positions. He was gainfully employed at the time but lost his job a year and a half later. It’s been a true faith journey and I still have marketing clients to pay the bills. I’m finally letting go and letting God lead me and guide me to pursue writing and creating as the focus of my work – actually, God’s work through me – I am in the process of making a good living. It is not an easy decision for anyone that ignores the practical to pursue what your soul is telling you to do – whatever that is – (that everyone including ourselves says it’s not practical like a real job is). Do a lot of listening to what your spirit is telling you. Be smart, which it sounds like you are in pursuing the professorships. Waiting is important too. Don’t feel rushed to make a decision. Keep me posted on what happens. God is not the author of confusion but of peace.
Blessings, courage and clarity to you,
Jackie
Sharon Smith-Koen
April 30, 2014 6:01 amI truly needed this scripture. I have been battling with the thought of resigning my fulltime job and going into full time ministry. This has not been a popular decision among my friends and family who always expect me to be realistic. I have applied for part time online professorships at Christian colleges in an effort to supplement my income while I travel to do what God has called me to do, however there have been no responses. I need to let my boss know if I will be returning to the school as a counselor next year and I have to admit this is scary. Be still and know that I am God came at a perfect time. Pray that I will drown out the noise of family and friends so I can hear clearly from the Lover of my soul. To God be the glory.
Jackie Trottmann
April 25, 2014 9:31 amHi Kim,
Yes! One of my favorite examples. Thanks for sharing. I illustrated this in a graphic on my Facebook page if you want to check it out. https://www.facebook.com/JackieTrottmannAuthor
Kim
April 25, 2014 8:48 amNotice the impact of these words when you break it down
“Be still and know that I am God”
“Be still and know”
“Be still”
“Be”
Jackie Trottmann
April 17, 2014 2:14 pmHi Ferlody,
I’m so sorry to hear about your friend. Thank you for commenting and I’m glad that you received insight from my post. Whenever I am overwhelmed and going through some anguish, I am reminded of Easter week and what major events happened to Jesus during one week. I will be blogging about that. I hope that your friend will find hope and strength and won’t give up.
Peace to you and yours.
Jackie
Ferlody
April 16, 2014 9:36 amA very good friend of mine is going through hard times and when she told me this morning that she has given up on life, the only word that dropped into my spirit to tell her is to “Be Still and know that I am God………” Psalm 46:10. I google for the meaning and came across your post. Thanks for giving us insight into that verse. I have also come across Joshua 1:9 through one of the comments. Its very powerful.
There is one thing I know about God, He says He did not call us to disgrace us. He is faithful and able.
Jackie Trottmann
April 15, 2014 9:22 amHello Clarence,
Thank you for taking the time to share such a lovely comment and story. How funny! You went on a fast and gained a wife! LOL Robert and I met at church and our 10th wedding anniversary is coming up in the fall. Unfortunately, God needs to get our attention through some drastic measures. Be blessed for paying attention and acting. Best wishes on your new endeavors. When life gets crazy, be still.
Peace, courage and abundant blessings to you Clarence!
Jackie
Clarence Fluckers,Jr.
April 14, 2014 5:27 pmHello Jackie, as a child I HEARD these words from my mother and would say to myself what and who is she talking to?!Well as I grew up I learned for myself the verse.About 4 years ago I had a stroke and as a result can no longer hold down a job and sometimes have to come to grips with the results of my lifestyle from years past!My first lesson came when the church I attend went on a Daniel fast &I came out of it with a BBEEAAUUTTIIFFUULL WIFE!!! Now I have been married for 2 years and getting ready to start this fall @APEX Theological School in Durham,NC it took MY stroke to get me to pay attention but I am here and wanna say Thank You JESUS for it was all him who kept Me.Now I know the meaning Psalm 46:10
Jackie Trottmann
April 5, 2014 9:43 amHi Ernie,
Not babbling at all! Thank you so much for taking the time to comment. I was not familiar with Joshua 1:9. What a beautiful verse! Thanks to you, I must share it: “I hereby command you: Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Wonderful!
I love that you shared about God speaking to you on your commute. When I had a long commute, I used to pray and listen instead of listening to the radio or cd’s. I actually had a Holy Spirit experience in the car, but that’s a post or ezine for another day! I’ve never shared that experience on the blog or with my readers. God shows up in many places and the car seems to be a great place….. kind of a captive audience situation :-D.
I hope that you are cancer free. When people like you reach out to me, it validates that I am doing God’s work in helping others heal and find God’s power within them. Thank you for that blessing. Thank you for reminding us that God gives all of us this courage, through the words of Joshua.
Peace, courage and abundant blessings,
Jackie
Ernie Feller
April 5, 2014 9:04 amJackie,
Thanks so much for your insight.
I can’t tell you how many time I use Psalm 46:10 along side Joshua 1:9 to comfort others that are going through a trial in their life.
In fact, Joshua 1:9 comforted me when I was diagnosed with cancer and like God has never failed me.
That said, I drive 3 hours a day to and from work and through the years have gown to love Psalm 46:10. During my morning commute is when I feel that God speaks so clearly…
Don’t mean to babble…just wanted to say thanks for all you do!
In Christ,
Ernie
Jackie Trottmann
April 2, 2014 8:35 amThank you for sharing that. May you continue to let God inspire you, change you and enjoy peace.
Peace, courage and abundant blessings,
Jackie
Johnston Kioko
April 2, 2014 3:02 amThis has come to me in an inspired way. I am changed.Peace
Jackie Trottmann
February 11, 2014 1:46 pmI commend you for making a commitment to being still. There are days when it is easy and days when it is not so easy. I believe that God honors that time we put into being still and being in his presence. While it’s difficult, if you are mindful, I’m sure that you’ve been able to see the benefits from taking this time. Learning to be still filters into lots of areas in life: being calmer, less reactive and more responsive, being patient and trusting God more. Keep up your being still practice. It will continue to help you. Oh, and by the way, I don’t believe God is “working” on you, I believe God is “inviting” you to be still.
Peace,
Jackie
angie
February 11, 2014 8:01 amThank you very much for the post. God has been working on me about being still and know that He is God.. I actually try to take 6 days and just sit in silence and course my daughter and son call me in that times it really helps me just meditate on His Word just be quiet and silent I did this in January ,and lately its been hard on me and things are getting to me and it goes back to that i need to be still and know that He is God and he’s taking care of everything and just wait patiently on his timing and his voice.. thank you for your post cause I really needed it yesterday wasn’t too good my motions is in the air and I know they can’t be but I also been travaling, I can’t wait to give birth in the spirit.. I cannot wait for this part pass
Jackie Trottmann
February 1, 2014 4:13 pmThank you for taking the time to respond. I’m glad that the words were meaningful. That’s encouraging that you have “building” thoughts and not tearing down thoughts. That is amazing, really. May you continue to be still and may you listen to what God has to say in those silent moments. I know, for me, He’s had a lot to say lately!
Peace and abundant blessings,
Jackie
Phyllis Anne
January 31, 2014 11:26 pmBe still and know that I am God.
I struggled for the meaning of that verse, especially how to ‘Be still’. Your essay was beautiful and brought new meaning to me for this verse. I think I have more like 150,000 thoughts a day. I know my mind goes a mile a minute nonstop, however, they are building thoughts, not tearing down. For that, I am thankful. It is nice to have a way of being silent, which at times I tenderly crave. Thank God.
Thank You.
Jackie Trottmann
November 21, 2013 9:58 amHi Stephen,
You have knocked it on the head in return. Thank you for the thoughtful comment. There is nothing more transcending than being still and merging with the consciousness of God. Bliss is a word that comes to mind. Thank you so much for getting it. Let me add the following: Be still and know that I am God. Be still and know that I am. Be still. Be.
Peace and blessings,
Jackie
stephen e michael
November 21, 2013 4:10 amYou have knocked it on the head. You have to still the monkey mind and the only way is through meditation and not by just reading biblical passages or singing hymns . You have to connect to the Divine conscious ness and allow it to enter you cleanse you and raise your consciousness above the body level. The ultimate aim is to purify yourself so that you merge with the I AM within you and which you are. You are not the body but given to you to identify your true self.
Jackie Trottmann
October 14, 2013 3:26 pmThank you for taking the time to reply. I like “shush” a lot!
Drea
October 11, 2013 3:57 pmAccording to freedictionary.com the following is one of the definitions of the word still:
2. still – cause to be quiet or not talk; “Please silence the children in the church!”
silence, hush, hush up, quieten, shut up, shush – silence (someone) by uttering `shush!’
Jackie Trottmann
September 16, 2013 6:09 pmHello Elayne,
Thank you for taking the time to comment. I am blessed to attend a wonderful church with wonderful pastors. Each Sunday, I absorb every word. So, this post was inspired by my pastor who shared the meaning of Be Still in his sermon. You will find a rendition of this same story in Matthew 8:23-27 and Luke 8:22-25. However, this is the only passage where Jesus, “Rebuked the wind and said to the sea, Peace! Be still!” He was not yelling at the disciples. The word rebuke means stern disapproval. As far as Jesus being overwhelmed, that is not taken from the scripture but is an embellishment based on the fact that in the various stories (more so Matthew and Luke than this passage) he had been healing people, speaking, casting out demons, etc. He requested leaving the crowds and fell asleep. For me, that is painting a picture that he was a little overwhelmed and exhausted, which is why he fell asleep. People were constantly clamoring for his attention, healing, etc. The thought of being overwhelmed shows the human side of Jesus. Yet, at the end of this passage, it shows the divinity of Jesus as he is able to calm the raging waters. The disciples were filled with awe and said, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” I hope that helps.
Peace and blessings,
Jackie
Elayne
September 16, 2013 9:33 amHello, I would like to know how you came to the conclusion that Jesus yelled, got angry at the disciples when they were afraid of the storm, and said, Peace, be still? Also, how in Mark, he was overwhelmed?
I am only asking because I have never seen/thought that Jesus YELLED, GOT ANGRY AT THE DISIPLES…
Thank you,
Elayne
Jackie Trottmann
August 2, 2013 9:10 amI like that you use the word sublime. It’s meaning is elevated or lofty, as in thought or inspiring awe.
Peace,
Jackie
Panneer Raja P Selva Rayar
August 2, 2013 1:13 amOne of the simple verses of God: He invites the man to be sublime in his search of God Himself
Sheng Yen Cheng
July 22, 2013 9:21 pmYeah, shut up is not a bad word after all. Interesting to know that.
Jackie Trottmann
June 16, 2013 8:54 amThank you, Ken. It is at the end of Chapter 4.
Peace,
Jackie
Ken Farrell
June 16, 2013 6:35 amMark chapter 4, not 5.
Jackie Trottmann
June 4, 2013 11:02 amThank you for sharing.
Peace,
Jackie
Anne-Marie Hendry
June 4, 2013 3:41 amI understand this passage to mean the meditation of God’s Kingdom in the heart of faith. We are to be weak and let go and release even die to self. We surrender to the the Master of All the Universe, and we are offered His peace and we are delivered from our fears. We think on the coming Kingdom of God that will be exalted in all the world, in all the nations. Jesus forever exalted. Meanwhile we set our minds on these, not of the earth; for you are dead and your life is hidden with Jesus in God. When Jesus who is our life appears, then we will appear with Him in glory. Col 3:2-4
“God I AM that and know! Be still ! In the earth I will be exalted among the nations I will be exalted.” wow what a thing to ponder
Jackie Trottmann
March 10, 2013 2:10 pmThank you for sharing your interpretation. I think it’s important that we let Scripture move us and inspire us. I love your interpretation of surrender. As a writer, I am fascinated with words and their meaning. This definition of be still I had never heard before. As what so often happens, it kept popping up after I heard it. It resonated with me and I wanted to share it. I am grateful that we don’t have to fight our own battles and, as you say, that God is in charge. Peace and blessings,
Jackie
Tebogo
March 10, 2013 1:17 pmBe still for my interpretation is to surrender because God is in charge. Dont fight our own battle as God doesnt need our help.
Jackie Trottmann
January 12, 2013 12:39 pmDear Rose,
Here is the rest of the comment that you wrote and wanted to post it.
Peace,
Jackie
Jackie Trottmann
January 12, 2013 12:14 pmDear Rose,
Thank you for the comment. The translation of be still was taken from the Greek… which will be a never ending debate I guess for Bible translation being a conundrum. The Hebrew word that you mentioned is beautiful. I had not heard of that before, so thank you for sharing. By no means am I a Bible scholar, however, I am one that seeks to continuously learn and experience God’s wisdom, peace and presence in my life.
I read about you and many of your articles on your blog before responding. My father was also in WWII but was an American. The War had a long-term affect on him and I too suffered for decades as a result of his behavior and violent outbursts. While my story is different from yours, much of the pain is similar. War is a terrible thing. “Raphah” – Letting go – is my on-going mantra or meditation. Writing for me has certainly been a wonderfully healing process. My heart goes out to you and I hope that your writing and art will bring you healing, wholeness and peace – the peace of God that passes all understanding.
brokenstones
January 5, 2013 2:03 amSorry, mispelled and skipped the ‘h’ at the end.
it should be ‘raphah’
to sink, relax, sink down, let drop, be disheartened
(Qal)
to sink down
to sink, drop
to sink, relax, abate
to relax, withdraw
(Niphal) idle (participle)
(Piel) to let drop
(Hiphil)
to let drop, abandon, relax, refrain, forsake
to let go
to refrain, let alone
to be quiet
(Hithpael) to show oneself slack
brokenstones
January 5, 2013 1:56 amIt is especially surprising as ‘rapha’, the word used in Psalm 46, means ‘let go’ or ‘be weak’, ‘drop your hands’.
I would really like to know where these pastors got the idea of ‘shut up’ from.
Jackie Trottmann
October 13, 2012 4:32 pmHi Keena,
Glad you had a laugh. I had to laugh myself. When my pastor said that, I had to share it. Don’t forget to listen too. :)
Peace,
Jackie
Keena McKenna
October 12, 2012 7:24 pmI laughed when I read that, “Peace, Be Still!†literally translates to be Shut Up! This helped me very much; I’ve been hearing this often from God…I guess I need to shut up LOL!
Thank you!