Now that school is back in session, hopefully those of us with kids at home are having to use this phrase less often. However, this simple phrase takes on new meaning recently as we continue to dive in to scripture.
Psalms 46:10 is a popular verse that we see hung on walls and even shared as encouragement among friends. The most common translation uses the words ‘be still and know that I am God’. However, when we look at translations that expand this simple phrase to align more with its original meaning, this scripture more accurately states ‘stop fighting’ (CSB) and ‘surrender your anxiety. Be still and realize that I am God. I am God above all nations, and I am exalted throughout the whole earth.’ (TPT)
When we think of ‘being still’, we tend to pause, breathe, and pray. All of these are healthy and valuable responses worthy of our engagement. Yet when we apply the idea to stop fighting and surrender our anxiety in this context, it draws us deeper and invites us to process things a little more fully.
““Stop fighting, and know that I am God, exalted among the nations, exalted on the earth.””
Psalm 46:10 CSB
Stop fighting.
Stop fighting our feelings.
Stop fighting our bodies.
Stop fighting our pain.
Stop fighting in our relationships.
Stop fighting lies.
Stop fighting shame.
Stop fighting the things of this world.
Surrender them all to our Father and connect with the Spirit.
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
2 Corinthians 3:17
The battle belongs to the Lord. And no one else. Because Jesus changes everything! And has claimed ultimate victory! We don’t have to fight in our own power and strength but rest in His freedom.
What do you need to stop fighting? Please truly pause and reflect on this question.
As I worshiped and worked out yesterday in our Holy Barre class, this was the question that the Spirit kindly allowed me to process more deeply. And my answer is expectations.
In this season, so much of my activity and productivity and thoughts are centered around expectations. Expectations of how things should work out. How things should be fair and just and positive and respectful . . . yet we live in a broken world. Nor is any of this in my control.
The irony is that through Holy Barre and Deeper Wells, the Lord continually reminds me how fun things are when we have no expectations. In starting Holy Barre four years ago, I chose to intentionally commit this ministry to be spirit lead. Without certain plans, a timeline, and set expectations, I’ve been able to experience the most joyful and fruitful ride of my life. In continually surrendering this ministry to Him, He has exceeded any and all expectations. And now, as we launch Deeper Wells, a larger organization whose mission is the gather people for worship, workout, and wellness, under which Holy Barre will fall, I am full of anticipation, knowing that He will continue to move in ways beyond my understanding. Just like is states in Ephesians 3.
Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Ephesians 3:20-21 NIV
Yet when it comes to my personal life, my expectations are real and present and near. Expectations about myself. Expectations about my marriage. Expectations about my kids. Expectations about school. Expectations about sports and activities. Expectations about our home and community. And while these expectations are normal and healthy to an extent, they cannot drive my thoughts, feelings and behaviors. The Lord is calling me to stop fighting against any and all expectations and surrender ALL aspects of my life to Him. Daily. Hourly. Minute by minute. For He is the Lord Almighty.
So let me ask again . . . What do you need to stop fighting? Lay it on the altar before our Almighty God. He’ll take hold of your battle and consume you with His love for His glory and our joy!
Father, may we keep our gaze on You. Help us to breathe and process and trust You in ALL things! Thank You for being our Rock and Firm Foundation.
Join me for a time of worship to breathe and be still and stop fighting as we move in love!
Burning Bright! 