by Desiree Bustamante

Come, experience the power of God.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“God is our refuge and strength,
    always ready to help in times of trouble.
So we will not fear when earthquakes come
    and the mountains crumble into the sea.
Let the oceans roar and foam.
    Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge! 

Be still, and know that I am God!
    I will be honored by every nation.
    I will be honored throughout the world.”
Psalm 46 New Living Translation

After a winter storm it often seems very peaceful and quiet. Yet to get to this beautiful snow scene there was first wind, freezing temperatures and hazardous conditions. Powerful storms often go before peace.

In the verse “Be still and know that I am God,” being still is not just sitting quietly or taking a nature walk. “Be still,” or “Raphah” in Hebrew, is a verb of action used 46 times in the Bible. In this verse it means “let drop, cease, abandon or forsake.” It’s as though God is saying “Enough! Abandon all your cares and fears at my feet and cease worrying. Come sit by me and watch me work in your life. I alone have the power to fight your enemies of sin and Satan. Know that I am the God over all the universe. I am exalted and mighty!”

As He calls you to experience His great power in your life, drop the chains that drag you down and weigh heavily on your soul.  Approach God in prayer, actively trusting that He has the power to forgive your sin, break the bonds of despair and refresh you with hope for each day. This is truth:

“The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;
     the God of Israel is our fortress.“
Psalm 46:11New Living Translation

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado