Stop and smell the roses
The LORD of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah
In the book of Psalms we find the word “Selah” some 71 times.
Undoubtedly, the word carries considerable importance, and we are intended to draw meaning from its inclusion. So, then, what does Selah mean?
To understand that we must first understand the Psalms themselves.
The Psalms are not simply poetic books of the Bible, they are actually songs meant for choir and musical ensemble.
Here is where the word Selah finds its place: The word is used to signal the choir to stop as the music plays softly, allowing the audience to reflect on the previous verses.
Simply put, Selah is meant to give listeners of a Psalm time to slow down and appreciate what they’ve heard.
With this, we find Selah serving as a wonderful reminder in how we approach God’s word.
To not simply scan our eyes over the pages, but stop from time to time and allow the words to find their place in our hearts.
Selah also provides wonderful instruction for life.
I’m reminded of a “staycation” my wife and I enjoyed.
We chose not to go on any excessive trips, or make wild plans. Instead, we found a quiet, peaceful stream close to home. We waded in the waters, we explored the shore, and even found some particularly friendly butterflies willing to pose for pictures.
Simply put, my wife and I chose to give ourselves a week of Selah.
A week to stop the noise and hustle, and simply enjoy God’s blessings in peace. What about you, dear reader?
When’s the last time you unplugged, slowed down, and allowed yourself the time simply to be and enjoy?
God has filled life with blessings uncountable, yet we’re often going far too fast to even notice them.
I hope that Selah serves as a friendly reminder to you to stop and smell the roses in your life.