Do Not Be Disturbed: Resisting the World’s Clamor and Finding Peace in God’s Faithfulness (Lectio Divina)

“Do not be disturbed by the clamor of the world, which passes like a shadow.”
~St. Clair of Assisi

Reflection:
The world is full of temptations, but the most insidious temptations are often the most subtle and most deceptive because they seem to offer some amount of benefit, either for us or for others, at least momentarily. These are the temptations that draw us toward that which seems good, and away from that which is best. These are the worldly clamors that promise short-term wealth, power, pleasure, and even justice, but which draw us away from faith, from trusting in God’s promise that we need not worry, and that he will provide what we need.

The world, and the evil one who rules over it (1 John 5:19), deals in false promises, deceptions, and distractions, the purpose of which is to convince us that there is good that lies outside of God. This is the lie of the Garden of Eden, the lie that God cannot be trusted, that it is up to us to reach out and grab the fruit of our desires, and to eat now, for the promise of eternity is a lie meant to keep us under the control of a greedy, selfish, unjust God.

St. Clair beseeches us, however, not to be disturbed by these clamors, not to be drawn in by their allure. She implores us to be patient and to remain faithful, and through this patience and faith, the clamors of the world will come and go, just as the shadow of a cloud passes as the breeze moves its source along. What remains, as these shadows pass, will be the light of the Lord.

Question for Meditation: In what areas of my life am I tempted to seek short-term satisfaction or security outside of God’s provision, and how might trusting in His promises change my response to those temptations?

Related Verse from Scripture: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” — Romans 12:2 (NKJV)

For Further Reading: If you enjoyed this reflection, check out Oratio: In God’s Soil — A prayerful reflection on remaining firmly rooted in God’s infinite love and peace, unmoved by the world’s temptations and distractions.