Preserved – Stirred, Not Shaken 

“Shaken, not stirred” is a phrase made popular by British movie spy James Bond and is probably one of the most famous lines from modern movies. The three words describe very clearly exactly how he wanted his martini to be made. Ironically, these words also describe how some of us as Christians respond when an unexpected loss or unwelcome change happens in our lives. Whether it is the loss of a relationship, the loss of a job, illness, or death of a loved one, sometimes we are so shocked by the “swift transition” that we might miss this: God wants to show us that we gain strength when we lean into the power and peace that comes from dwelling in His presence. 

I was discussing this idea of leaning into the presence of God last week with members of a prayer group. We were each sharing how we and others were dealing with the shocking executive orders of the new presidential administration. We all admitted that though we trusted God, we had questions and concerns. A few stated that they had spent the last few weeks being intentional about not being distracted by watching or listening to the media. We agreed that one benefit of shutting out distractions like the media with their sometimes fear-inducing reports is that you hear God better, seek more time with Him, and have a greater sense of peace during uncertain times.  

Because I’ve been so disturbed by the actions from the White House lately, I was encouraged by these words of comfort. In the midst of that conversation, God also brought something to mind. When unexpected things happen in our lives, there is actually only one question that we should focus on answering: Will I choose to be shaken by what occurred or will I be stirred up to trust God’s sovereignty and lean into His presence despite what happened? Unanticipated things encourage us to be stirred to spiritual growth and not be shaken into a paralysis of negativity and discouragement. And it’s only after we go to God in prayer and earnestly seek His will in those very difficult situations that we can rest in His peaceful presence. 

2 Timothy 1:6-7 reminds us of the importance of being “stirred” in the familiar passage of scripture in which Paul exhorts Timothy. “Therefore, I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.  For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” Here, we are reassured that especially when we may be shaken by life’s circumstances, we can tap into a God-ordained boldness that will allow us to be stirred to have peace even in the most uncertain times and overcome even the most devastating circumstances with a faith-filled confidence and authority.  

Shewanda Riley, PhD is a Fort Worth, Texas-based author of “Love Hangover: Moving from Pain to Purpose After a Relationship Ends” and “Writing to the Beat of God’s Heart: A Book of Prayers for Writers.” Email her at preservedbypurpose@gmail.com or follow her on X (formerly known as Twitter) @shewanda