“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
by Christy Hoagland
Be Still – my first song – well…almost. I did write a song in 2003 when I will still struggling with doubt and assurance about my salvation, before I completely surrendered my life to Christ. I think this is why I always say Be Still is my first song. A relationship with Jesus changes everything, including song writing. Perhaps I will write about that particular song in the future but today is about Be Still.
I began the lyrics in March 2016 while I was sick and forced to “be still”. The verses to the lyrics were the start and I felt God speaking through His Word, through Psalm 46:10. Sometimes I think God looks at me and shakes His head and says “really, Christy? you are concerned with all that, remember who I am”. It is when I am still that He speaks, when I quit striving and busying myself with so many things that I can hear from Him. When I am still and wait on Him He teaches me who He is and the results are knowing Him more and my faith is then strengthened. I am stubborn, so I need reminded again and again…constantly – to abide, rest, and seek Him. He has all the answers if I will just be still and listen.
The chorus is so simple, yet so full of truth… Be still and know that God is in control, that He is making us whole (sanctification), He’s all that we need…. these truths should make us fall at His feet in worship of who He is! The bridge continues with His promises of faithfulness. One of my favorite lines is “You have given me Your peace, Lord, assurance to believe” – the peace we gained when we put our trust in Christ, that supernatural peace that passes all understanding is the assurance we receive when we follow Jesus. He gives us the assurance to believe Him, His Word, what He says! He is truth! This belief should bring us great and wonderful peace.
This song is a favorite among many, especially the incarcerated. When everything around us is in chaos we need to remember who we serve, who is really in control, the great God of the universe. His yoke is easy, His burden is light, cast your cares on Him. If, or when, we start to get caught up in the craziness going on around us, whether it’s the current situation of the coronavirus, or finances, or health issues, or so many other things…just be still and remember who He is. When our perspective changes and we focus on God and the big picture, the cares of this world really do fade away. Be still, chill, God’s in control.
Be Still
Verse 1
How many times have You told me to wait
So I can know You, who You are and be brave
You’ll teach me Your ways and place in me faith
If I’ll just be still
Chorus
Be still and know God’s in control
Be still and know He’s making you whole
Be still and know He’s all that you need
Be still and know and fall at His feet
Oh, Be still
Verse 2
Why do I need Your constant reminder
Abide and rest and call out to You
You reveal Your truth and mercy completely
If I’ll just be still
(Bridge)
You are constant so I will rest
You are faithful, I will trust
You have given me Your peace, Lord, assurance to believe
©2016 Christy Hoagland (ASCAP Sing for the King Publishing)
Christy Hoagland 