The Discipline of Quietness

How is your soul doing today?
In this verse, King David is speaking to himself. His soul was discouraged (having lost confidence or enthusiasm; disheartened.) His soul was in distress, in turmoil.

I can’t help thinking about the many times my soul has been discouraged to the point of despair. How often do I withdraw to a quiet place to calm my heart and soul? But no matter where I go, my soul cannot rest.
The truth is, our soul craves rest. It doesn’t matter how many hours we sleep or try to escape to a quiet place. If our soul is not at rest, we can never have peace. Ever lay down and try to sleep, only to find that your mind and heart are not at rest? Are you full of anxiety and worry?

Unfortunately, we live in a world cluttered with noise and distraction. But the noise in our mind is what keeps us up at night. At times it becomes so loud that it limits our ability to pay attention and focus.
I remember reading about the prophet Elijah. At the end of all his victories, he was worn out, depressed, and hopeless. During this period, he felt that God was a million miles away. His soul, like David’s, was in turmoil and restless.

So, what did Elijah do? He fled to a dark, isolated, quiet cave to find rest. Sound familiar? However, this place needed to give Elijah what he needed. Instead, it only added to his turmoil and depression. Elijah’s soul was not at rest, no matter how quiet and isolated the cave was.
But something unique happened to Elijah in that quiet, dark, isolated place. God found him and asked, “What are you doing here, Elijah? Get out of this cave.”

God found Elijah at his lowest point, lovingly elevated him, and restored him. Elijah knew God’s strength and His power. But he had never experienced God’s still, quiet voice. Some of us, like Elijah, need to be repositioned and change how we think to receive what the Lord has for us.

Like David and Elijah, I have experienced seasons where my soul was filled with fears and worries. No matter where I went or how much I tried to quiet the fears, doubts, and loneliness, I could not find rest.
But one day, I cried out to Jesus, and He found me amid my storm. No, He wasn’t in the noise, thunder, or a supernatural event. Instead, He was in a quiet, still voice whispering to me, “You’re not alone. I’m with you.”
I don’t know what you may be experiencing today, but I can assure you that you’re not alone. Our Lord is right there amid our storms. All we need to do is listen.

David penned a lovely song in Psalm 46 to remind us of a God Who is ever-present even during the worst times. The song says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give away and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.” Psalm 46:1-3 NIV

We will not be shaken because God is our refuge and strength.

Lord, today is one of those days where my soul is overwhelmed and cast down. Father, help me to remember your promises and the many times you pulled me out of my despair and storms. Lord, help me remember that In the stillness, there is a knowing. I may not have all the answers, but I know You. Your Word says, “In quietness and confidence is my strength.” (Isaiah 30:15). You, oh Lor,d are my strength, anchor, and the constant in my life. Help me to keep my eyes on You and not on my circumstances. Thank you for Your love, mercy, and faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, amen.