Be Still and Know

Be still, and know that I am God" (Psa. 46:10). In our hustle­bustle world, we have forgot- ten how to "be still" and reflect on the beauties of life. We too often make time for everything but the one thing which matters most-knowledge of God and appreciation of his many good gifts. There is a real push toward acquisition of secular education but too little emphasis is given to that all important fourth "R"-Religion.

Knowledge of God is obtained through individual study of his revelation. "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (2 Tim. 2:15). "You" is the understood subject.

Knowledge does not come by accident, though many of us may wish it were so. "And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you" (1 Thess. 4:11).

Mothers, especially with young children, find it difficult to set aside a consistent quiet time to collect one's thoughts and commune with God. One mother pours herself a second cup of coffee and relaxes with God's Word in preparation for a busy day before her husband leaves for work. For working mothers, another time might be more convenient. Whenever the time, it takes discipline and determination to make time for consistent study.

"Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee" (Psa. 119:11). What a great need there is for us to seek a greater knowledge of God's Word. Even those professing Christianity are ignorant of much of God's teaching. Thus we have doors easily opened which allow the entrance of error into our midst. Too many of us cannot recognize error when it hits us in the face. "My people perish for lack of knowledge" (Hosea 4:6).

Mothers and grandmothers are in a unique position to teach and train our precious children to know and respect the God of heaven. Reinforced by godly fathers and grandfathers, that training can lead to obedience and faithful service to his cause. We cannot teach what we do not know. The lax attitude prevalent today has resulted in an apathetic, even rebellious, disposition on the part of our young. We need to promote a chain reaction toward respect for God's authority.

We make time for things we consider important. We follow our children's sports activities and school activities because we want to. To do so we often must leave undone some tasks. Why not have the same fervor toward Bible study with our children? Turn off the television, put down the newspaper, magazine or book and enjoy a quiet time with God's book to strengthen your faith and renew your spirit.

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction" (Prov. 1:7). In our growth as Christians we must add the graces of 1 Peter 1:5. We are to add knowledge to virtue.