Inspirational
Posted: 09/26/2025
“Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10
Can you imagine a music producer who does not know how to run a soundboard?
Recently, I learned about the nine-time Grammy-winning record producer Rick Rubin. I could hardly believe that the producer behind Red Hot Chili Peppers, System of a Down, Adele, Ed Sheeran, Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga, and many others doesn’t even know how to operate a soundboard. Rick calls himself a “reducer”—someone who listens deeply and strips away the clutter to reveal the artist’s true voice. His gift is not in doing more, but in being present and protecting the song’s soul.
Isn’t this what we are called to be? To be a presence, not a fixer. We often feel the urge to fill the silence, to offer solutions, or to intervene with quick answers. Yet more often, God calls us to do what Rubin does: reduce, clear away distractions, and hold space for someone’s authentic voice to emerge.
This connects seamlessly with the wisdom of the Tao Te Ching that warns against forcing outcomes, as it can block the natural process. It also reminds us that constant interventions may cause adverse effects, and that “doing little” and trusting the process is more impactful.
We see the embodiment of this wisdom in Christ’s ministry, especially in His prayerful retreats and moments of seclusion. His power was not in constant activity but in presence. Even in His interactions, Jesus remained grounded, holding the space for people to encounter God’s love.
From Rick Rubin to Jesus Christ, we are reminded that intentional presence is often enough and that the invisible process is indispensable. Wise leaders understand this reality. They foster institutional innovation, nurture organizational healing, and guide communities toward wholeness not by doing more, but by being fully present, reducing what distracts, and trusting the natural process.
The invitation for us today is to slow down, pause for a moment, take a breath, and be present in the “here and now,” knowing that in stillness, God is present through us. “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).
