DEVOTION / Relax

[God] says, “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).

"Relax."

Aaron Rodgers’ assurance

Aaron Rodgers, the Green Bay Packers' fabled quarterback, quieted criticism about the Packer's season with that word.

On Sunday, September 21, 2014, the Packers embarrassed themselves with a 19-7 loss to the Detroit Lions. Many fans prophesied the entire 2014 season a debacle.

"We'll bounce back," Rodgers told NFL.com. "Relax. We're going to be fine."

Rodgers was right. The Packers won 12 games out of 16. They won their fourth consecutive NFC North division title. They were undefeated at home. They led the league in scoring. In their first playoff game, the Packers picked off the Dallas Cowboys. Unfortunately, they lost the NFC Championship in overtime to the Seattle Seahawks.

God’s assurance

Relax is what God says to anyone who fails to trust that he is Lord over all. Be still. No matter what it seems like, "I will be exalted," he assures. I will be exalted among the nations, no matter how many world powers or local chieftains wage war against me and my church. I will be exalted in the earth, no matter how many voices are raised to discredit my power and love.

Relax, he says. Be still. This is not the time to become upset. Or worried. Or fearful. It is going to be fine.

The Hebrew word for relax also has the meaning of letting go of whatever you are hanging on to, of quitting whatever you are doing or thinking. With this word, the Lord is saying go limp, fall into my hands, I'll catch you. I've got this covered. It's going to be fine.

Easter’s assurance

Relax. That's the message of Easter morning.

“Do not be afraid," the angel told the women at the tomb. “Peace be with you,” the risen Savior told his disciples. Relax.

To relax is the logical response to the fact that the Son of God who became one of us is the victor over all sin, death, and hell. To relax is the reasonable response to the resurrection guarantee that God has adopted us and has provided us a place in his heaven.

Relax. Be still. Jesus is risen. He is risen, indeed.