Be Still and Trust

Being still is a hard thing to do in our chaotic world. Bonnie Drury tries to find a way.  

“Be still and know that I am God!” (Psalm 46:11a)

I was sitting in Adoration the other morning, my mind racing with distractions, when I heard clearly, “Be still.” I looked around, but no one else was there. A calm settled over me, as all my anxieties faded away. What a wonderful power our God has.

Be Still Instead of Impatient

I thought of all the times this verse, this invitation, would help any situation. While driving, that little old lady (who’s probably younger than me) is slowing me down from reaching my destination. Be still. Say a prayer for that person instead of becoming irritated. Who knows what she’s going through?

I’m waiting in line at the grocery store, and the customer ahead of me is painstakingly writing a check, in our tap-the-card culture. Be still. Thank God that you can pay for your groceries every week.

Be Still Instead of Arguing

I remember back when my five boys were cooped up with the weather, and their bickering reached a crescendo. I added my voice to theirs. “Stop it right now!” Instead, hearing a “be still” would have helped me to engage them in a more productive way.

My husband and I are in the middle of an argument, trading zingers. Be still. You love him, my inner voice says. Can’t you treat one another with the same patience you showed when you first admitted you were soulmates? Take a moment to renew that sweet bond.

Your mother-in-law likes to issue comments about your inability to do anything right. Do you answer in kind, or do you realize that she believes you’ve taken over the #1 spot in her son’s heart? Can you work together, find common ground, something that acknowledges he loves you both?

Be Still While Praying

It’s time for the Eucharist, and I’m fidgeting in my seat. Be still. This moment reminds us that Jesus gave His all for us and continues to do so. Let’s approach the table with faith, reverence, and gratitude.

Be Still, and Accept New Realities

I was especially saddened when I realized that our 11-year-old granddaughter no longer considered a trip to our house the same as going to Disneyland. “Be still,” I heard the Holy Spirit say as I prayed about this loss. “She’s changing into a young woman, and her interests are different. How can you alter your plans to fit hers, and continue to enjoy one another?”

My husband and I are watching the news, becoming increasingly agitated. Be still. We turn off the disturbing broadcast and pick up our spiritual reading or the Surrender Novena. We can turn to a family movie that will leave a lasting smile in our hearts, rather than squander our time on negativity.

You’re heartbroken over a very real loss. “Be still and know that I am God.” Remember all the promises Jesus made about when we’re in pain.

I consider that the sufferings of this present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us. (Romans 8:18)

Be Still, and Surrender

He is our God, our Savior, our friend, our greatest hope. “O Jesus, I surrender myself to you. Take care of everything.”

“Be still and know that I am God.” Trust.

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Copyright 2026 Bonnie Drury
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