Being Still in a Stirring World

Being Still In a Stirring World Psa. 46:10

Did you know that noise affects human behavior? In an experiment by psychologist, a student leaving a library would intentionally drop an armload of books. In 50% of the cases, a passerby would stop and help pick up the books. A lawnmower without a muffler was then added near where the student would again intentionally drop the books. This time only 10% of the people would stop to help. It was clear the behavioral change was brought about by the extremely loud noise of the lawnmower.

While this doesn’t explain every problem in the world today, I think the inability to get still before the Lord does have a major role to play.

The words be still is actually from one Hebrew word râphâh (raw-faw') meaning to be weak, to let go, to release which might be better translated according to John Parsons as, “Cause yourselves to let go” or “Let yourselves become weak.” We see it is not just to be quiet but to give up to God. I think there are three things the Psalmist is trying to get across to us in this little Psalm; Trusting God Exalts God, Trusting God shows us God is God, Trusting God sets

I. Trusting God Exalts God

A. Exalts him among the heathen

1. We can see this among the history of the Jewish people. I think of Daniel in the lion’s den.

2. It’s doesn’t matter what the devil tries to do God will get glory from it

a. Joseph sold into slavery

b. Joseph falsely accused

i We must be still or surrender and let God have his way

ii In the Hebrew grammar this would be worded something like this, “We surrender in order to know that God is in control”

iii This doesn’t limit God it is up to us whether to “Know” the fact in a positive way now, or a negative way in eternity.

B. Exalts him in the earth

II. Trusting God, shows us God is God

A. Some try to Box God in, some box God out, some try to box with God, while God wants us to think outside the box.

1. This psalm shows a God who is unlimited, uninhibited, and Exalted

2. The trip from Egypt to the Promised Land.

a. Took years while it could have just taken months

b. Murmured and complained the whole way

iv God provided at every step.