Be Still And Know that I Am God

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message encourages believers to stop running and striving, and instead cultivate a deep relationship with God. It's a call to recognize that our lives are not about achieving success or productivity, but about having intimacy with our Creator. We're reminded that God yearns jealously for us, and wants to be with us, despite our tendency to want independence and control over our lives.

Key Scripture References

• Psalms 46:10 - This verse is a command to "be still" and know that God is in control. It's a challenge for those of us who are used to striving and achieving, but it's also an invitation to rest in God's presence.
• James 4:13-16 - This passage reminds us that our lives are like vapors, appearing for a moment and then vanishing. We're encouraged to trust God's sovereignty and not boast about our plans or achievements.
• James 4:5 - This verse reveals that God yearns jealously for the spirit he has placed within us. It's a reminder that we were created for relationship with God, and that He wants to connect with us deeply.
• Revelation 2:4-5

This passage in Revelation is a warning to churches (and individuals) who have forsaken their first love. We're reminded that our primary priority should be to love God, and not just do good things for Him.

Key Takeaways

• The tendency to strive and achieve can lead us away from intimacy with God. We need to recognize that our lives are not about productivity or success, but about having a deep relationship with our Creator.
• God yearns jealously for us, and wants to be with us. He desires a deep connection with us, and wants us to know Him intimately.
• We need to stop running on the treadmill of life and get off the machine of striving. We need to rest in God's presence and trust His sovereignty over our lives.
• The greatest moments of our lives will be those times when we're alone with God, connecting with Him deeply and experiencing His peace and joy.

This Week's Challenge

This week, take time to stop running and striving. Get off the treadmill of life and sit in silence before God. Ask yourself why you've been running aimlessly, and seek to connect with God on a deeper level. Take two specific steps:

• Set aside 10-15 minutes each day this week to sit in silence and focus on your breathing. As you breathe in, say "God, I'm coming to You." As you breathe out, say "I release my striving and control."
• Take a walk outside without any distractions (no phone, no music) and simply be present with God. Notice the beauty of nature around you and ask yourself what God is speaking to your heart.

Reflection Questions

• What are some areas in my life where I've been running on the treadmill of striving? How has this impacted my relationship with God?
• Have I ever experienced a moment of deep connection with God, where I felt His presence and peace? What was that like for me?
• How can I prioritize intimacy with God in my daily life, rather than just doing things for Him?