A Bit of Nan-Sense for 1-28-16:
My son and daughter-in-law gave me a lovely, cloth-bound journal for my birthday. I decided to record favorite scripture verses, perhaps one or two for each book of the Bible, then meditate on the meaning, and record how the truths have played out in my life.
One of the first entries included Exodus 14:13-14, when the Israelites had just escaped slavery in Egypt only to come up against the Red Sea. To make matters worse, Pharaoh’s army was in fierce pursuit. The people were terrified, desperately wishing they’d stayed in Egypt.
Moses said, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today…The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
True to his word, God did miraculously rescue them.
Notes to self, in response:
Time and again God has proven to me his trustworthiness and demonstrated his loving care. My blessings journal with over 1000 entries thus far provides ample proof.
In addition, Scripture abounds with promises that give me hope during difficult times. I know that God specializes in bringing beauty out of ashes (Isaiah 61:3). And though deliverance may not come as soon as I’d like or in the way I expect, I know God will see me through.
With those words, “be still” (at least in this context) God was not suggesting total inactivity. After all, the Israelites did have to walk through the Red Sea to the other side. It appears God was urging them to be still of heart – to cease the negativity, consternation, and fretting.
That’s my part in God’s provision, too: stillness of heart.
And how do I achieve that?
A mind is kept stilled in peace by staying focused on Almighty God (Isaiah 26:3).
(Does that make sense to you, too? Share your thoughts below!)
Photo: Nancy Ruegg
From the Inside Out 
Thanks for this reminder!
I read the story of Moses and the parting of the Red Sea again yesterday. Your journal entry is such a wonderful reminder of God’s loving care.
God’s Blessings!
Thank you, Robby. I need those reminders, too! (‘Do appreciate you stopping by and leaving a comment!)
You are welcome! Blessings!
This is a treasure! The beauty for ashes is something I needed to be reminded of. Your notebook will be a precious gift back to your family as part of your legacy!
Thank you, Dawn. As I commented to Robby above, I need the reminders, too. As for the notebook becoming part of my legacy: I am prayerful that the journal and other bits of writing I’ve done will be a helpful and worthwhile legacy for my family!
“Be still and know that I am God” of course comes to mind… “Stand still and see the salvation of God,” and then your reference….how many times does God need to remind us to ‘be still’? Obviously a lot.
We think we can do so much better by being busy–and slowing down our minds is the most difficult place to slow down.
(you’ve been reading my mail, right?)
Am I remembering correctly that “still” was a focus-word of yours a year or two ago? You undoubtedly know a great deal about “being still.” And you are so right: we tend to value busy-ness when it is stillness that brings satisfaction, peace, and joy. (P.S. ‘Haven’t been reading your mail, just your blog posts! 🙂 )
Yes, I agree and being still before Him! You expressed it well Nancy. That is going to be a Blessed Journal in more ways than writing it and very meaningful for you.
Liked the Nan-sense!
Thank you, Janet. Stillness is a discipline I’m “still” working on. Yes, I have a feeling that reflecting on these favorite scriptures through the Bible will freshly impact my own attitudes, reactions, motivations, etc. Perhaps as I reflect, even the stillness of my spirit will be impacted. As for the Bit of Nan-Sense, it will probably become a regular feature here!
Stillness of heart. great reminder and one I needed this morning. Thank you. One of my favorite verse in Exodus is when the women take out their tambourines and dance. They knew the trip was dangerous, they packed in a hurry, must have been chaotic but what was one thing they didn’t forget – a means to dance with and praise their God. Always remember to bring your tambourine – and trust God for the right time to bring it out in joy and celebration.
Jean–LOVE that observation! Thank you. I DO want to have my tambourine of praise always at the ready!
To be “still of heart” even when we need to move—this is such a good reminder, Nancy. Thank you.
Thank you, Laurie. Progress requires many reminders, doesn’t it. I’ve wished the lessons along the way became internalized upon first hearing. But for some reason God didn’t equip us to become sanctified saints overnight!
What a great idea… Selecting a couple favorite scriptures from each book of the Bible! And, love this one from Exodus… Be still of heart…Isaiah 26:3 is one of my favorites!! I love how through your blog you still are mentoring me!! So thankful for you! ❤️
Oh, Lisa. I am so thankful for you, too–your caring ways, your tender heart, your willingness to listen, your encouragement. You are a precious friend, indeed!
Only by quieting my mind and ridding it of doubts and fears can I hear His voice… “Be still and know that I am God.” After all, He is the way…not only for salvation, but for the day-to-day challenges of life. if I only get out of His way!
Well said, Cheri. We have to quiet those clamoring voices of doubts and fears with the truth of God’s word. He WILL see us through the day-to-day challenges of life!