Dear Church Family,
 
Even during calmer seasons, it can be difficult to find quiet.
 
Most of us carry a steady stream of information with us everywhere we go. News alerts arrive throughout the day. Social media keeps us aware of what everyone else is saying. Emails, texts, podcasts, advertisements, and opinions are always reaching for our attention. Even when we are physically still, our minds can feel crowded.
 
There is nothing inherently wrong with being informed or connected. In fact, I believe followers of Jesus should pay attention to the world around us. We should care about what is happening in our communities, our country, and across the globe. But there is also a danger in allowing every voice to have access to us all the time.
 
Psalm 46:10 gives us a simple instruction: “Be still, and know that I am God.” Stillness is not something our culture encourages very often, but it is something our souls need.
 
When we create space to pray, read Scripture, worship, and listen, we are reminded again of what is true. We are reminded that God is sovereign even when the world feels unsettled, that our identity is not determined by the latest headline, someone else’s opinion, or the pressures of the moment. We are reminded that wisdom begins with Him.
 
Paul tells us in Philippians 4:8 to think about whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable. That kind of focus does not usually happen by accident. It requires us to be intentional about what we allow to shape our thoughts.
 
That might mean putting the phone down a little more often. It might mean beginning the day with Scripture before checking the news. It might mean spending a few minutes in prayer before responding to something that has made us frustrated or anxious. It might simply mean recognizing that we cannot listen to God well if we don’t allow any quiet.
 
The world around us will remain loud, but we can choose which voices receive the greatest attention in our lives.
 
My prayer for us is that we would become people who think wisely, listen carefully, and stay grounded in the truth of God’s Word no matter how much noise surrounds us.


Expecting Greater,
Pastor Roger