In Other Words: Standing Still

“Blessed Be Your name

When I’m found in the desert place

Though I walk through the wilderness

Blessed Be Your name…”~ Matt Redman

As a child I remember being instructed to stand still if I was to ever get lost in the woods. Today’s quote has reminded me of times I have been “lost” in the woods, or wilderness a time or two in a spiritual sense. Funny though, I don’t think I ever applied my childhood learning to “stand still” to my spiritual wilderness experiences. However, the more I think about it the more I realize that there is a lot of truth in that “standing still” principle.

Personally, my wilderness experiences have often resulted after I feel like I am in a state of confusion or when I am feeling overwhelmed! “Tara” (my flesh) wants to tear through that wilderness and hide. Yet the still small voice inside whispers, “Be still and know that I am God,” (Psalm 46:10).

What does it mean when God’s own are commanded to “be still”? It is actually not indicating the restriction of movement in God’s people. It actually represents a spiritual disposition that ought to characterize those to whom God’s unfailing promises have been given.

The words “be still” comes from the Hebrew word, “ raphah”. This word is found in various forms in the Old Testament, with different “shades” of meaning. It refers to that which is slack, or to let drop, or in some instances, to be disheartened or weak.

Interestingly, “be weak” is commanded here in this case Those who are disheartened are commanded to take courage. In other words, it is God’s way of saying, “Cool it, I GOT this! “ And if He’s got it, then what do I have to be weary over? Oh God, help me remember to bless Your name at all times regardless of (and in spite of!) my location, situation or circumstance!

On the other hand, I find it interesting that Redman’s verse has us, “walking through the wilderness…” BUT “FOUND in the desert!” As I have pondered this today I have come to realize that wilderness experiences teach us to RELY on God. We realize that in our inability He is able to guide us through the wilderness and teach us something in the meantime. However, the characteristics of a desert are much different.

Deserts are dry places unlike a wilderness where hidden streams (life) may be waiting to be discovered! Being in a desert spiritually finds us dry, in need of rescue, dehydrated and often times exhausted. At times we feel every ounce of joy, faith, grace and anointing is being pulled from us. It is in these times we learn to TRUST in Him. When we are weak, He is strong! We trust that He knows exactly where we are and He will find and nurture us. He will be our stream in the desert!

I have experienced both the wilderness and the desert and I do not prefer one over the other. Both places are uncomfortable and not where I would choose to dwell. However, one thing I have learned to do in both the wilderness and in the desert is to bless the name of the Lord. I will bless Him at all times, when the going is good and when it is so tough I don’t want to get up in the morning. I’ll bless Him when I feel alone and when I am surrounded by those who love and celebrate me. I’ll bless Him when I am afraid and unsure and when I am fully confident in who I am in Him. I will bless Him come rain or shine, come desert or wilderness. I will bless His name.


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Love & Blessings....