The Significance of Being Still

Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.”

When was the last time you were truly still? Not busy doing a thousand things around the house. Not scrolling in bed. Not working. Not thinking through your to-do list. But, you were just still before the Lord. When was the last time?

You can’t hear God’s voice clearly when you’re go, go, go. If you want to sense his direction and experience his peace, you’ve got to get alone and get quiet before him. Many people call this a “quiet time,” but it’s really about more than silence — it’s about stillness.

When you choose to be still, something beautiful happens — the focus shifts from you to God. Your worries fade, your heart softens, and you begin to sense his grace.

There’s something powerful about realizing that God wants to meet with you. You don’t have to beg for his attention. He’s already waiting for you.

Jeremiah 33:3 says, “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know” (NIV).

You may think you’re waiting on God — but often, God is waiting on you. He created you for relationship, and he loves it when you spend time with him. He longs to be part of your everyday life, not just your Sunday schedule. God’s patient, but he’s always ready to meet with you the moment you turn your attention toward him.

Of course, finding quiet in today’s world can feel nearly impossible. Noise surrounds us — in cars, stores, waiting rooms, and even in our own homes. Silence has become rare, yet it’s in that sacred stillness that we most often hear God’s whisper.

And if you have young kids or a full household, stillness can seem like a fairytale. But take heart — even the busiest person can find moments to connect with God.

Consider Susanna Wesley, mother of 18 children — including John and Charles Wesley, two of the most influential figures in Christian history. Every afternoon, Susanna would sit in her rocking chair, throw her apron over her head, and spend an hour in prayer. Her children knew that when Mom’s apron was over her head, it was her time alone with God.

John Wesley later said it was his mother’s prayers that shaped his life and faith.

If a mother of 18 could carve out sacred space with God, so can you. You might have to be creative — wake up a little earlier, find a quiet corner, take a short walk, or pause during your lunch break.

Be desperate to meet with God. Make time for stillness. Quiet your heart, silence the noise, and sit in his presence.