For many of us, resting is a skill we need to practice. In Psalm 131, when the Psalmist writes, “I have stilled and quieted my soul,” they help us to understand that rest is not passive. It requires action on our part. The Message translation interprets this as, “I’ve kept my feet on the ground, I’ve cultivated a quiet heart.” To cultivate a quiet heart can be hard work, especially in the midst of the storms that pass through our lives. It requires a shift in perspective and even a transformation of how we think.
“In place of our exhaustion and spiritual fatigue, God will give us rest. All He asks is that we come to Him...that we spend a while thinking about Him, meditating on Him, talking to Him, listening in silence, occupying ourselves with Him - totally and thoroughly lost in the hiding place of His presence.” Chuck Swindoll
To rest in discipline, we need to carefully monitor the environment around us and manage the motion and noise of our souls.
This week, read Psalm 131 and reflect of this prayer:
Lord, please show me this week what causes my soul to get anxious and noisy. Please teach me how to cultivate a quiet heart. Please help me to establish this as a discipline in my life.
Question for Reflection:
What kind of environment helps you to feel calm?
