Be Still and Know
Trust in Action: How Confidence in God Inspires Hard Work and Commitment
"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
—Psalm 46:10
When we think about this in the context of our faith, it becomes even more powerful. Let’s take a moment to reflect on Psalm 46, which beautifully illustrates the unmatched power of God and the stability He provides, even in times of chaos:
The psalm captures the reality of turmoil in the world—earthquakes, floods, wars—but assures us that God is in control. It reveals His power to cease wars, break the bow, and shatter the spear. Despite the chaos around us, we are invited into a place of stillness: "Be still, and know that I am God." This isn’t a call to passivity, but an invitation to pause, recognize His sovereignty, and realign our lives to His mission.
Be Still: A Call to Reflection, Not Relaxation
That phrase, "be still," might seem like a call to sit back and coast. But the more we trust God and recognize His plan, the more we are compelled to act. Knowing that God’s name will be exalted among the nations and that His purposes will come to pass doesn’t cause us to sit back and relax. Instead, it motivates us to step up and engage with even more passion.
When we know God’s track record—how He delivered Israel from Egypt, raised a nation from one man, and continues to work through history—it reminds us that we’re part of something much bigger than ourselves. God doesn’t need us, but He invites us to participate in His mission. And knowing that, how can we not work harder to see His will accomplished?
Working for a Purpose Greater Than Ourselves
Some might argue that if God is all-powerful, we don’t need to be active participants. But this perspective misses the point. It’s precisely because God is trustworthy that we should feel inspired to work harder, not out of fear or obligation, but out of joy and confidence. Just as you would work diligently for a boss you respect, how much more should we labor for a God who has already assured us of His ultimate victory?
This is especially relevant when we think about support raising. At its core, support raising isn’t just about asking for money or filling a budget—it’s about inviting others into a divine partnership. We’re not merely working to fund our ministries; we’re actively participating in God’s mission to be exalted among the nations. When we pick up the phone to make a call or send an invitation for support, we’re asking others to join us in something eternal and meaningful.
The Why Behind Support Raising
Why do we raise support? It’s easy to get caught up in the tasks—making calls, setting up meetings, sending follow-up emails. But beneath all that, there’s a much deeper reason. We support raise not just because we believe in what we’re doing or because we want others to experience the life-changing impact of our ministries. We raise support because we’re partnering with God in His mission to be glorified across the earth.
The confidence we have in God’s promises—that He will be exalted among the nations—fuels our work. We don’t just invite people to give; we invite them to have a front-row seat to God's incredible work. We’re giving them the opportunity to be part of a movement that stretches far beyond our lifetimes.
Confidence in God Leads to Boldness
In Psalm 46:11, we’re reminded again: “The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.” This same confidence is echoed in the Great Commission, where Jesus says in Matthew 28:20, “I will be with you always, to the end of the age.” Whether we’re making disciples or raising support, we go out knowing that God is with us, and that His purposes will be accomplished.
So, as you reflect on your role in support raising, ask yourself: What’s at the foundation of your work? Why do you raise support? Take time to honestly answer that question, and then consider how your "why" can shift to focus on partnering with God in His mission to be exalted among the nations.
Let this confidence drive you—not to sit back, but to lean in with boldness and enthusiasm. We’re not just asking people for money; we’re inviting them to be part of something infinitely larger—God’s unstoppable plan to be glorified across the earth. Let's embrace that calling with full hearts and active hands.
Be still and know that He is God, and then let’s go out and do the work He’s called us to do.
