Be Still for the Presence of the Lord

Image based on this work by Jhong Dizon.
Licensed CC 2.0

This hymn about God's presence in Jesus was written in the 19802 by English music teacher and contemporary Christian music worship leader and composer David J. (Dave) Evans (b. 1957) - ref.

The song is based on Exodus 3:1-6, in which God is seen by Moses in the burning bus - but contains many other scriptural references.

It was first published by Kingsway's ThankYou Music in 1986, has crossed denominational boundaries, and is widely published and included in various hymn books.

The tune is is set to is simply called BE STILL, and was also written by by Evans. This has a 4/4 time signature. In the key of D, the first few notes are D D FG AA AB D_, with accompanying chords D / F#m7 / Bm.

Downloads

This section may contain affiliate links: I earn from qualifying purchases on these. Free downloads are provided where possible (eg for public domain items).

Sheet music is included in this collection of worship songs arranged for organ

Interactive downloadable sheet music, with lyrics and score for Piano/Vocal/Guitar

Examples

Solo singer, self-accompanied on guitar:

Large choir with organ:

Large choir with piano:

Solo singer with piano and light orchestral backing:

Solo singer with guitar, professional recording:

Instrumental - classical guitar:

Lyrics

The lyrics are copyright so cannot be reproduced here. But they are currently available on this website. A rough outline is:

Be still, for the presence of the Lord, the Holy One, is here;
... Be still, for the presence of the Lord, the Holy One, is here.

Be still, for the glory of the Lord is shining all around;
... Be still, for the glory of the Lord ....

Be still, for the power of the Lord is moving in this place;
.. Be still, for the power of the Lord .....