God’s word for times like these

Day 4: Still in control

No matter how God-defiant or Godforsaken the settings in which we find ourselves, prayer, with a kind of built-in radar, tracks it way to God.

Eugene Peterson, 
Where your Treasure is

Read: Psalm 46

Nearly every country in the world is implementing an unprecedented course of protective measures – from closing borders to limiting activities. These measures are in place to restore control and prevent panic. Ironically, control is somewhat illusive, whilst panic is real and growing.

Are we losing this battle, the same way as the Jews were losing theirs with numerous enemies many years ago? Are we ready to cry out with the Psalmist, that the only help we have, the only strength we possess, the only refuge we can count on, is our God?

He is here with us in the midst of the chaos. He is still in control. He calms us when we become still and know that He is God. So, put down your broken weapon of wanting to be in control and come and find confidence in Him.

With your family

Cut out some thin strips of paper and use them to measure the bicep muscle in the arms of every person (bend your arm and squeeze your fist make it stand out!). Use a ruler to measure each strip, name it and record the number. Who is the strongest in your household? I wonder how strong God is? Each person then writes one way that they know that God is strong on their strip of paper.  Share your answers and think of some more together. Now glue the paper strips together to make a much longer strip. Together, God makes us strong and we can have confidence in his power and strength. Stick your ‘God strip’ on the wall somewhere as a reminder this week.

Now do what it says in verse 10: “Be still and know that I am God”. Each person writes out the words of verses 1-2a. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth should change.” Find a quiet place to be still. Set a timer for two minutes and read these words to yourself slowly, over and over again. Pray the words together to finish. Display your creations on your wall as a reminder of God’s caring presence.

Pray

Almighty God, still our minds and our hearts. Let us spend time with You and know You more. Amen

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