Becoming Still: while on a tightly wound swing
On Becoming Still
Scripture advocates a call to be-still while remembering that God is God, and we are not. In my experience, this sometimes requires what I liken to as… the great unwinding of a tightly wound swing.
As a child, I would wind the swing as tightly as possible by turning around and around until the chains could wind no more. Then I would let go! Just remembering this makes me want to get on a swing! Sure... I screamed, got dizzy, and sometimes wished I could get off the ride. All in all, though, I loved the thrill. Eventually the great unwinding became slower until I could touch the ground with my feet. I was still dizzy but at least I was sitting.
In like manner, when the "swing" of my soul is tightly wound by anxious thoughts or pressures, I can make a choice to surrender to God and let go! He stays present and patiently listens to every wandering thought and prayer. Somehow, something happens. I don't know how to describe it. My soul settles into a place of peace. Quietness becomes louder than noise, and I hear the whispers of God.
This type of becoming still is one way to take thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ. Each of us are invited to surrender our cares to The One Who Cares. We do not have to pretend nor strive to be something we are not. God already knows our hearts and He is never shocked. What a relief to know that God is an ever present help in time of need.
And God’s presence often appears in a similar way through ordinary people. Be on the lookout for a trusted caring person who will listen well. This goes a long way in helping a soul feel connected with God, self, and others.
Dare to surrender your cares, even if your soul needs to unwind in the process. You’ll be okay because… the Lord is with you, no matter what!
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.”
“Take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ”
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
“Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. A prayer of a righteous person, when it is brought about, can accomplish much.”