Week 3 – Day 14 (Thursday)

Psalm 46:1-3, 10 – Jesus withdrew

Matthew 14 begins with a story marred by corruption (vs. 2-13). Herod, the governor of Galilee, has an improper relationship with his brother’s wife, Herodias. John the Baptist provoked Herod by calling this relationship adulterous. John’s reprimand results in his death. When Jesus learns of the death of His beloved cousin, scripture says, “…he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place.” (vs. 13)

Jesus was deeply sorrowful over the circumstances and death of John the Baptist, yet He demonstrated the importance of Psalm 46. When everything feels darkest, we must step back and follow Jesus’ example by withdrawing. Sitting in the Father’s presence and allowing Him to minister to our hearts with healing and peace is essential to moving forward in a God-honouring way.

“Be still and know that I am God…” (vs. 10) is so much more than a lovely cliché to be printed on plaques and T-shirts; it must become second nature – especially in times of sorrow and pain.