Finding Stillness
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)
Sometimes I wish I could turn my brain off. I spend a lot of time worrying about everything, both real and imagined scenarios. My mind feels like it is constantly buzzing with what I need to do and take care of—the house, the kids, work, writing. All of which I love, but it just seems like there is always something. Or it feels like tasks are compounded. The other day I completed some work on the computer, then had a glitch and had to do it all again, so the task took twice as long as it should have. A few weeks ago, when I was unable to fully avoid an object in the road, I got a flat tire. It took seventeen days and two auto shops for me to get a new tire. It was another worry to add to my plate for longer than it needed to be.
Now, added to the everyday stress is the constant worry about Covid-19. Personally, we are trying to live as normally as possible while still being cautious and conscientious. In the spring, being under shelter-at-home orders did not foster great rest. The uncertainty of the spring and summer has given way to a more normal schedule this fall, but I still find myself striving for rest. The CSB translation of Psalm 46:10 says, “Stop fighting, and know that I am God.” At this moment, for me, this means stop fighting myself. Stop fighting against rest with all the should-dos and ought tos.
Rest, for me, means I need some quiet, which has been difficult to come by with everyone at home for months. However, it is important, even if it is not easy. I love Psalm 46:10 because sometimes I just long to be still, and I would like everything around me to be still as well.
What can we do to achieve stillness?
First, make sure stillness is a priority. Our mental health is just as important as our physical health. Most women are notorious for putting themselves last. While selflessness is an admirable and necessary quality, is it real selflessness if we are wrung out with barely anything to give? We need to give ourselves permission to take care of ourselves.
I know this is a difficult thing to do. I find it hard to relax when I still have things to do. But there will always be something that needs to be done. We have to learn to prioritize our responsibilities and make cuts when needed. It is not possible to give your best to a million different projects. We need to take a hard look at what is truly important and let go of the rest.
Where do you find stillness? What restores you?
If you can’t answer those questions right now, then please take some time to think about them What fills you up? What makes you smile? What makes you feel more energized? Figure out what it is, and make time for it.
The two things that really fill me up are taking walks and paddle boarding. Being outside and moving just gives me more energy and gives me a break from everything. Usually, when I walk, I listen to music or a podcast. However, when I am out on the water paddling, I don’t want any extra noise. I just want to hear nature and the sound of my paddle slicing through the water. The physical activity and the quiet help rejuvenate my spirit.
Last week, I was stressed out and overloaded. I felt like I was working and working but nothing was getting done. There was definitely no spare time. However, I made myself take time away from my work to do something I wanted to do, something that would fill me up and give me more energy. And you know what? My week was better. Yes, I still had loads to do, but my outlook was better, and I had more energy. Walking away from my to-do list for a little while gave me a better perspective and made it easier to tackle the work when I got back.
Be still with the Lord.
In your search for time to refill, make sure some of that time is spent with the Lord. We are made for fellowship with him, and nothing will fill us up like he can. Even just a few minutes makes the day better. Be proactive with your time. Make a plan in which you accomplish all you need to, but don’t forget to plan for time for you. Your health and well-being deserve to be on the list.
Dear Lord, Thank you for always being there for us, even if we neglect our time with you. Help us make good plans align with what you have for us. Help us learn to be still and revel in your presence. Guide us as we make our plans for each day. Amen.
Scripture for Reflection
Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take up my yoke and learn from me, because I am lowly and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. (Matt. 11:28-30 CSB)
On the seventh day God had completed his work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work that he had done. God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy, for on it he rested from all his work of creation. (Gen. 2:2-3 CSB)
The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all that they had done and taught. He said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a remote place and rest for a while.” For many people were coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat. (Mark 6:30-31 CSB)
The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still. (Ex. 14:14 NIV)
Reach for More
Schedule time for yourself this week. Find a friend you can check in with, and support each other. Remember, it is OK to walk away for a while when everything seems like it is too much. Make it a priority to start your days with prayer and reading the Bible to set you on the best course for the day.
is a writer, blogger, and middle school teacher. She and her husband live in Georgia with their three children. In addition to teaching and writing, Dana loves to read, paddle board, and sometimes run. She blogs about faith, family, and enjoying the everyday life at danaherndon.com.
Photograph © Raychan, used with permission
