Intro
Events happening in the world; terrorism (foreign & domestic) (Virginia/North Carolina)
We are a nation that is coming to a climax of division
Could have a second civil war? Could be on brink of WW3?
Many get worked up…even me at times
But then God! As I read this passage He is telling us all “In the Midst of Chaos: Be Still
Read all verses but will focus on vs 10 (read/pray)
Notice in these verses God goes through and says
Though earth give way; though mountains fall into sea
Waters roar and mountains quake
Vs 1 - God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble – have no fear
Trans: Then after telling of the chaos that ensues in all this, He tells us…
1. BE STILL
I know that’s the last thing we do (Expound)
First to BE STILL doesn’t mean motionless
The Hebrew word is RAPHAH (RA FA) which means to RELAX and LET GO; To CEASE
Other words: don’t get all worked up, quit striving – BE STILL – Cease; let go; Relax
Today’s lingo – CHILL OUT
In the midst of all the CHAOS; whatever that might be
BE STILL
Psa 62:5 “My soul, WAIT SILENTLY for God alone
Many of our personalities is to WORRY
Look what Jesus says in Matt 6:25-34 (turn there)
Vs 27 (read) saying is “what can you do to change the situation by worrying”
Get unpleasant news – Be Still
Going through tough times – Be Still
Phil 4:6-7, “Be anxious for nothing BUT in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving let your request be made know to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Trans: He says not only to be still but…
2. KNOW THAT HE IS GOD
Why does he say that here? I think it’s because we often forget just how powerful and amazing God is
Look at the preceding verses 1-6, and 8-9
He is reminding us WHO is really in charge and WHO really has great power
Look at Psa 93:3-4
Psa 46:1 – “God is our refuge and strength”
REFUGE means “shelter from the storm; shelter from danger or falsehood”
STRENGTH means “material or physical or personal or social or political”
It has the same connotation as a hen places her wings over her chicks to protect them
“A very present help” means He is right there, right now
No matter what the trouble is
Reminded of Emmanuel – God with us – He is always present
Because He is always there – we will not fear!
Look at vs. 7 (read) he goes on to repeat this again in vs 11
Why? So that we will get it!
No matter the circustances; no matter the news; no matter what is happening in politics
No matter who is in government; no matter who protests?
No Matter come what may?
He is with us and He is our refuge!
Though the mountains fall into the sea; and the waters rage
He is with us and He is our refuge!
Conclusion
In the midst of the Chaos; Be STILL
BE STILL – be silent; don’t worry – won’t do any good
Actually will do harm – don’t worry; don’t fret
Be still – Chill out – relax – Let Go
Know that He is God – There is no one nowhere more powerful
No one loves you more; cares for you more; longs for you more THAN GOD
Though everything falls apart – Know He is God – He is in control
Invitation
What do you need to let go of and be still about today?
What do you need to let go and Let God be God in today?
Pray
