From the Inside Out

Quiet time is a foreign concept to me. My life is filled with constant noise whether it’s music blasting loudly from my iPod, continuous conference calls at work, or TV programs providing background noise. The only time I turn it off is when I’m going to sleep. 

I’m not sure why I enjoy the constant hum of background noises. As a Gen X’er, I did grow up as part of the “MTV” generation — maybe that has something to do with it? Most likely, it’s simply because the noise keeps my mind busy and provides a decent distraction from the stressors in my life.

Tonight I was reminded that the Bible instructs us to “be still and know that He is God.” A song written by Steven Curtis Chapman expands the thought further:

Be still and know that He is holy
Be still, O restless soul of mine
Bow before the Prince of peace
Let the noise and clamor cease
Be still

In the midst of my busy, chaotic (and yes, noisy) life, sometimes I need that gentle reminder to turn everything off and “be still.” It’s during the quiet times God when speaks the loudest. Sitting at His feet, all of my problems fade away. My restless soul is calmed, and life becomes bearable, even joyous, again.

Isn’t it amazing what a little “time out” can do? It’s like going to the gas station and getting refueled — only without the exorbitant costs. All I have to do is stop “doing” and be still.