“When anxiety was great within me, Your consolation brought me joy.” ~Psalm 94:19

“When anxiety was great within me, Your consolation brought me joy.” ~Psalm 94:19

This reminds me of ones of my favorite verses. “Be still, and know that I am God”.  Noise and chaos are not of God. Anxiety is not of God. The Almighty Creator of the universe does not have to shout.  A whisper creates, a tender word heals, an exhale builds.  Perhaps "The Big Bang" was misnamed. I believe the universe began with a breath - the Breath of God. He is in the stillness and silence. The sacred darkness before dawn.

When we are quiet, we can "hear" His voice, His guidance and direction. His comfort and consolation.  We can't be still when we are running around trying to do everything at once.  I'm not saying that we shouldn't be busy - that's impossible in today's world.  But we can look crazy busy on the outside but have peace and calmness within our soul. You know what I'm talking about - there are days when everything seems to go wrong, we're irritated and hurried, and we feel out of control.  But other days, when we "allow" God to be present (so easy to forget sometimes), we soar and triumph.  Or at least feel accomplished and satisfied.

I am learning to be still when faced with a trouble.  Instead of rushing to ask people to pray and get increasingly fearful and anxious, I say, "God, You're in charge.  Keep me calm and give me wisdom and peace.  Show me what I can do".   And He ALWAYS answers with that still small voice. "Do not be afraid.  I will never leave you nor forsake you.  Cast your cares on Me because I love you and will take care of you."

Thank you, Father.

Written by: Bonnie Chovanec, 2026