Selah
{Selah} When I read the Bible, it used to be unnoticed. Now it has taken on a new connotation and a new meaning in my life.
Although it is a word that scholars disagree about its meaning; Selah, of Hebrew origin, is generally accepted with the purpose of pause.
On the Bible.org website, it is also defined as "a pause to reflect on what was said." - I love that meaning.
Pause to reflect on what was said, pause to listen to what was said, pause to understand what was said.
Silence is no longer seen as something precious; it bothers and is uncomfortable. In a conversation, when silence comes, it seems to be something eternal and strange.
Being busy is appreciated in our culture; it's the same as being "important" or "successful." We don't like to stop. Jumping from one activity to another is expected.
When we rest, it is when we show that we trust in the sovereignty of God, demonstrating awareness that we have no control over anything. There is no use running from one side to the other.
When we pause, we reflect, evaluate, and listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit.
In the Psalms, as they sang praises, they stopped and reflected on what was said, as if it were a moment to absorb every word, every expression of worship. The central focus was indeed to worship God. In the same way, this can be adopted in our life.
On an average day, when we seek to have control of everything, stopping and reflecting in His presence is as if we suddenly become aware of His presence that is all around us, all the time.
When we become aware of this presence, even a small detail becomes more meaningful; it becomes full of Him. A conversation is no longer a simple exchange of words; it is meaningful and valuable, centered around God. Life makes sense. The presence of God does not become something rare; it is real.
When you wake up, pause. As you pray, listen. As you read the Word, reflect.
To be still, doesn't mean to be lazy, but to trust in who God is. The ONE so says to us: "Be still, and know that I am God" - Psalm 46:10
For you:
I want to encourage you to try to take one day, either this week or the next week, to rest and practice “selah”. A day to pray, listen to God, read His word and worship His name. Beautiful treasures can be found when we become aware.
