What is the power of being still? We live in a world that never stops moving. Between work, responsibilities, and the constant noise of social media, we often find ourselves running on autopilot—moving from one task to the next without pausing to reflect, recharge, or seek God’s direction. The truth is, without stillness, we miss out on the wisdom, clarity, and breakthroughs God wants to give us.
Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” This isn’t just a poetic phrase—it’s an invitation to step away from the busyness of life and recognize that God is in control. Jesus Himself modeled this. Even in the height of His ministry, He withdrew to solitary places to spend time with His Father (Luke 5:16). If Jesus, who had the most important mission in history, took time to be still, how much more do we need it?
Why Being Still Matters
Many of us are caught in a cycle of working harder, pushing forward, and striving to break through obstacles in our lives. We wake up every day and charge toward the same problems, hoping that sheer effort will make a difference. Yet, the wisdom we need might not come from doing more but from being still and listening.
The Bible tells us that God leads His people through His Spirit (John 16:13) and that His voice gives clarity and wisdom. But if we are always moving, always talking, and always distracted, how can we hear Him?
Three Ways to Practice Being Still and Hearing God
1. Make Time for Stillness (Schedule It Like an Appointment)
If you don’t make time to be still, the busyness of life will always take over. The first step is to schedule stillness into your day just as you would schedule an important meeting.
- Early Morning: Before the noise of the day begins, wake up 30 minutes earlier than usual. Sit in silence, pray, and listen.
- Late Night: Instead of binge-watching TV or scrolling through your phone before bed, set aside time to reflect, meditate on Scripture, and listen for God’s voice.
- Midday Pause: If mornings and nights are too busy, find a quiet moment during lunch or in between tasks to reconnect with God.
Stillness isn’t about doing nothing—it’s about creating space to be fully present with God.
2. Remove Distractions and Get in the Right Environment
Many times, we struggle to hear from God because we are constantly surrounded by distractions. Being still means removing the noise.
- Turn off notifications on your phone.
- Step away from the TV, radio, or social media.
- Find a quiet place—your room, a park, or even your car if necessary.
- Keep a notebook handy. Expect that God will speak, and be ready to write down thoughts, insights, and direction He gives you.
3. Listen More Than You Speak
Prayer is a conversation, not a monologue. Often, we come to God with requests but don’t take the time to listen for His response. Being still means giving Him space to speak.
- Instead of rushing through prayers, pause and wait in silence.
- Read Scripture slowly, asking God to highlight a verse or truth that applies to your life.
- Ask open-ended questions, such as: “Lord, what do You want me to do?” and then wait for His leading.
This is the place where clarity comes. This is where wisdom and breakthrough happen.
Final Challenge: Will You Be Still?
Life will always be busy. Responsibilities won’t disappear overnight. But the difference between a life of running in circles and a life of divine direction is found in the still moments with God.
So I challenge you: Choose a day this week to be still. Find 30 minutes to sit in His presence, without distractions, and listen. You might be surprised at what He wants to reveal to you.
If this resonates with you, let me know in the comments: “I will be still.” Let’s commit to creating space to hear from the One who knows all things and is ready to guide us into His perfect will. 🙏✨