Stand Still in Faith
Written by Dawn Okrasinski
The same root word in Hebrew for "Amen" also refers to the words "established" and "believe." By ending the request in "Amen," we confirm that God has heard us and will answer. How often have we completed our prayers, trusting that God will come through? So be it. Amen. Trust can be hard to embrace when we see the enemy bearing down on the ones we love, the mounting bills, or the fear that settles quietly around our best thinking. I will admit that I have prayed and placed those very struggles in God's hands, only to get frustrated at how He addressed the problem and promptly snatched that worry right back. Patience doesn't often shine in crisis. We tend to want the answer without the investment of faith. Waiting on God in the stillness can challenge us to tears. Thank goodness the Word of God, resonating through the Holy Spirt, offers peace and assurance when circumstances are too much to bear.
Jahaziel instructed the people of Judah in 2nd Chronicles that the battle belonged to God. He tells them to do three specific things as they prepare to meet the enemy. He assures them they will see their God do great things established by their faith, "…Position yourselves, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you…." 2nd Chron 20:17(NKJV) How can we take these steps to ensure we too continue to work within our Church rooted in faith?
Through daily prayer and supplication, we are planting ourselves firmly in God's plan and believing that his motivations are our blessing, whether seen or not seen. This God-conscious practice continually adjusts our attitudes, resolves fear and doubt, and offers us lasting peace in the face of worldly concerns. Our faith places us squarely to the right of God through our savior, Jesus. He hears us when we ask for His hand in our lives. "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." Proverbs 16:3 (NIV)
Sometimes, the fear of the outcome is so overwhelming we stay busy and disconnected from the very pulse of God's love and protection. We cannot hear directions when caught up in our noisy lives. It is hard to see where the path leads when we frantically seek control. "Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." Psalm 27:14 (NIV) When we pause, we find God in the stillness. When we wait in patient silence, we can see before us what God is doing, and often, we can take direction from the Holy Spirit as to what we should do next. "Be still and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." Psalms 46:10 (ASV)
God desires us to be established in belief, finding His permanent peace and blessing upon all who seek him in faith despite the tribulation. "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." Romans 10:13 (NIV) To set our eyes on God allows us to see the His gifts in all situations regardless of the ending. We are assured that his goodness and love offer miracles and mercy in equal measure.
The plan for our Church is in the hands of a loving and powerful God. Everything we have experienced in the last few years is nothing more than God's vision for CCCOG's revival. As we take our places and prepare to row as a team, we can confidently place our fears, impatience, doubt, and disquiet before him. We pray continually, ask for his will, find his guidance through the Holy Spirit in our stillness, and celebrate his grace and peace by acting in an established faith. Church, position yourself, stand still, and see his excellent plan for all of us.
Pray and Reflect:
Romans 8:31 (NIV) "What then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?"
John 16:33 (NIV) "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble but take heart! I have overcome the world."
Ephesians 2:8 (CEB) You are saved by God's grace because of our faith. This salvation is God's gift. It's not something you possessed.
Call To Action:
The world is busy. If you have not carved out time to remain in God's Word, you are encouraged to begin this practice. Reflect on your change in attitude and focus.
Pray specifically for our Church that we move as one guided by the Holy Spirit.
How has God established you in faith?
What experiences have you had when you realized that God was working in your life? Share this with another this week to confirm God's loving grace.
