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Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
THE PEACE OF HIS PRESENCE
“Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10
In a world filled with constant noise, rapid change, and uncertainty, the call to “be still” can feel like an impossible request.
Yet, this verse invites us to pause—truly pause—and recognize who God is: sovereign, loving, and utterly dependable.
To be still is not simply to stop our outward movements; it means quieting the turbulence within our hearts and minds, allowing ourselves to stand in awe of God’s majesty.
In that stillness, we find the assurance that we are not alone.
God is there, and He is greater than every challenge we face.
When Jesus and His disciples were crossing the Sea of Galilee, a violent storm arose.
The disciples, though seasoned fishermen, were terrified by the force of the wind and the height of the waves.
Amid their fear and frantic cries, Jesus stood and rebuked the storm with just three words: “Peace, be still” (Mark 4:39).
Instantly, the wind died down, and the sea became calm.
This scene reminds us of the incredible truth that Jesus’ presence changes everything.
When He is near, no storm—whether literal or figurative—can overwhelm us.
His authority extends over the natural world and into the darkest corners of our anxiety and fear, replacing them with His divine peace.
We often face storms in our own lives—unexpected hardships, difficult decisions, looming deadlines, and emotional turmoil.
In these moments, it’s tempting to fix our eyes on the chaos swirling around us.
Yet, God invites us to shift our focus.
When troubles arise, instead of frantically seeking solutions in our own strength, we can choose to pause, breathe deeply, and turn our hearts toward Him.
Being still before God may look like setting aside a few quiet minutes in the morning, stepping away from the constant buzz of technology, or taking a short walk in nature.
In that sacred space of stillness, we remember who God is and surrender control of our circumstances into His capable hands.
Gradually, the fear that once gripped us can give way to faith, and anxious striving can yield to the calm assurance that God is truly in charge.
Imagine a lake on a windy day.
The surface is choppy, broken by whitecaps and ripples.
But once the wind ceases, the water settles into a mirror-like stillness, reflecting the beauty of the sky above.
In the same way, our hearts may feel like that churning lake when worries and challenges blow through our lives.
By choosing to rest in God’s presence, letting His peace settle over us, we allow the spiritual “waters” of our souls to become calm again.
In that state of tranquility, we more clearly reflect Christ’s character, and we see our problems in the light of His eternal perspective.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the peace that comes only from Your presence. In a world that pulls me in every direction and stirs my anxieties, help me to be still before You. Remind me that You are God—sovereign, loving, and ever faithful. Grant me the grace to trust Your control over every circumstance and the faith to rest in Your unwavering love. May Your peace guard my heart and mind as I learn to find stillness in You. Amen.
ASSIGNMENT: Set aside ten minutes today for silent prayer. Find a quiet place where you can be alone—turn off your phone or any distractions. Close your eyes, breathe slowly, and focus your thoughts on God’s presence. Acknowledge that He is near, that He is bigger than any fear, and that He holds every detail of your life. As you do this, notice what thoughts or emotions arise. Write them down afterward, and then express your gratitude to God for the peace He offers, regardless of the circumstances you face.
WEDNESDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Daisy Almand
Brody Fuller – Jackson Byrd’s Roommate at College – Heart Surgery
Carol Angel in passing of her husband, Don
Kim McClain’s Sister
Theresa Bain
Mike Bryan
Liz Knight
Jessica Headrick
Linda Lanier
Angela Bryan’s Sister
Ben Bruce
Carol Lawhead
Danny Jarrard
David Newby
Darlene Wiggins
Denise Hulsey – Jordan’s G’mother
Donna Plunkett’s Brother-in-law
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Ellen Boyd
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Faith Burnette
Friend of Linda Hodge
Gail Sparks
George & Linda Alexander
George Calhoon
James Burnette
James Parker
Joanie/Jeanie Mom
Jodi Bateman
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
June Davis
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain
Kim McClain’s Mother
Krista Hilscher
Larry Barker
Lee Cronan
Lillanna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Linda Hodges’ Sister
Lonzo Christian
Lori Blount’s Mother
Mary William’s Granddaughter
Mary Williams
Mary Williamson – Dana Jackson’s Mom
Marynell Ford
Matt Barron’s Mother
Maureen Brown
Michael Stanley
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Sandra Roach Mitchell
Sarah Parker
Scott Lanier
Steve Michaels
Tom Witcher