“Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).

In an essay in 1963, literary critic and author C.S. Lewis said something about how to avoid God:

“Avoid silence, avoid solitude, avoid any train of thought that leads off the beaten track. Concentrate on money, sex, status, health and (above all) your own grievances. Keep the radio on. Live in a crowd. Use plenty of sedation.”*

Well, he’s not wrong.

We live in a world of noise, busyness, status, deceptions, speed and achievements. In Lewis’ day his reference to keeping the radio on might now be better expressed like this: “have multiple screens going and keep scrolling.” Focus on your hurts and complaints—your “grievances”—not what God is working in your present and future. Bumble along with the shallow thoughts of the crowd and believe all the spin doctors. Find ways to sedate yourself to avoid not only your deepest longings, but the presence and power of God in your day-to-day life.

Alertness and attentiveness is a frequently repeated theme in the Bible. Most famously, we are reminded to “be still” and know that God is God in Psalm 46:10. We are to be alert and watchful for the return of Jesus, as in Mark 13:35. The warnings against over-drinking, as in Ephesians 5:18, are at least in part motivated by a desire to be cooperative with the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Being “watchful” is also required so that we don’t get drawn in by the evil one (1 Peter 5:8).

The point is to pay attention—to notice, to see, to experience. Enter into the silent moments of reflection. Think critically. Pray deeply. Use your heart—and also your mind. 

Let’s not avoid so many of the places where God chooses to meet us. “Be still, and know that I am God.”

Notes:

-*The essay was called “The Seeing Eye.” I have seen it posted online in a variety of locations.
-Bible quotes are from the ESV.