Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Quietness Within


Surely I have composed and quieted my soul; like a weaned child rests against his mother, my soul is like a weaned child within me. Psalm 131:2 (New American Standard Bible)


This is a verse of serenity and one which I want to experience on a daily basis. I know what it is like to live ruffled, disquieted, and in conflict. Far from peace and tranquility within my soul. The part of me that encompasses my life, person, appetites, mind, inner being, desires, emotions, and passions. The very core of who I am. Tranquility there? Peace and quietness in the midst of any circumstance, trial, or difficulty? If not there, then no where!

We often wait for life around us to be serene before we hope for serenity but that just serves to show us where we are placing our expectations and confidence. Peace, contentment, and quietness don’t come from without, they come from the inner workings of God in our life. They come from fixing our eyes, heart, and mind on the one Source that desires our attention and affection. If I am looking to anyone or anything other than God to bring me to the point of a “weaned” soul, I will walk with profound emptiness and in turmoil. While He certainly uses people in my life, they cannot be my source. While He brings influences and opportunities to me, they cannot be my source. While growth and freedom become evident, they cannot be my source. None of the afore mentioned blessings can be what I look to for the quieting of my soul.

God repeats to me on a continual basis, “Look to Me, at Me, and for Me at all times and in all circumstances. Fix your eyes on Me, direct you attention toward Me, follow Me.”

I often marvel that God will use the very things and people in my life that He knows may become my focus. Then He lovingly and persistently allows my “search” to result in disappointment and pain in order to redirect my attention back on to Himself. I long to see my times of focusing on Him to become longer and stronger. To come to the point when all else dims in comparison to Him. To perk my ears to the sound of His voice above all others. It is His goal for me as well so I know it will come.

Father, don’t allow any focal points in my life outside of Yourself. Help me to keep my eyes on You at all times. Amen.


As The Deer
http://youtube.com/watch?v=VIlGBQfdzL4&feature=related

I welcome your questions and comments to any devotional thoughts. I am honored and delighted to share my journey with you and privileged to hear of yours.