Have you ever gone to a lake and skipped stones? What happens to the surface when you throw a stone into water? Or how about going on a windy day? What does the wind do to the water’s surface? In both cases, the surface of the water is disturbed.
I recently read a quote from a German philosopher named Hans Margolius that said “Only in quiet waters do things mirror themselves undistorted. Only in a quiet mind is adequate perception of the world.”
It’s easy to see the significance of this observation. When we are disturbed or anxious by the things that impact our lives, we have a distorted view of life. We can’t see things as they really are. We must be willing to calm our hearts, casting our cares on the Lord so that we may see and understand what God is trying to show us. The reflection is made clearer by our willingness to let go of our anxiety. The only way that happens is for us to drop our rocks and wait for the water to become still.
The Lord has much to teach us if we are willing to still the waters.
Proverbs 17:27 The one who knows much says little; an understanding person remains calm. (MSG)
John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (NIV)