5 April 2024 – Be Still And Know That I Am God
BRD REFLECTIONS:
1 Samuel 5:1-12; 6:1-21 and Psalm 46 (NIV)
(Goh Khean Teik, Precept Facilitator)
READ:
1 Samuel 5:2-4; Psalm 46:1, 10
OBSERVE:
In 1 Samuel 5:2-4, the Philistines had captured the ark of the Lord from the Israelites and placed it in the temple of Dagon, the chief god of the Philistines. However, in the morning, they found Dagon fallen on his face before the ark of the Lord! They put Dagon back in his place but the next morning, he had fallen again and now his head and hands were broken off! I found this to be a vivid picture of the Lord’s supreme power.
This power is the basis of Psalm 46:1, which states “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble”. In Psalm 46:10, He commands, “Be still, and know that I am God”. The NASB translation of Psalm 46:10 is “Cease striving and know that I am God.” This calls for an acknowledgement of God’s power and that He is in control.
APPLY:
Oftentimes, when faced with troubles or problems, I would seek my own strength to try to resolve them. This is prideful and at times, has led to despair and frustration. But these verses remind me of His power and refuge, and that I should trust in God.
Last weekend was Easter. I recalled the grace, mercy and love of God, who gave His Son Jesus to die on the cross for our sins, and through His resurrection, demonstrated the ultimate power over death. By believing in Jesus Christ, I have claimed that hope of ever-lasting life with Him when He comes again. He knows that as I continue in this world, there will be trouble. Hence, He has given the Holy Spirit to be my Helper and to guide me, and He is able to do more than all I ask or imagine, according to the power of God that works within me.
DO:
Rather than to lean on my own strength and striving, I will pray more and seek counsel from the Holy Spirit, and continue to study His Word daily, so as to be able to discern His plans for me.
PRAY:
Thank You God that You are my refuge and strength and an ever-present help in trouble. I pray that I will continually find rest in Christ alone, and know His power in quietness and trust.
