Bible Verse

Psalm 46:10

This psalm celebrates God as refuge and strength during times of turmoil, possibly written in response to God's deliverance of Jerusalem from enemy attack.

"He says, 'Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.'"

— Psalm 46:10 (NIV)

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Other Translations

"Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!"

— ESV

"Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth."

— KJV

"Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world."

— NLT

Understanding the Context

Book Context

Psalm 46 is a song of confidence in God's protection during national crisis. It describes chaos in nature and among nations, yet proclaims God's people can find peace in His presence.

Historical Background

Possibly written during King Hezekiah's reign when God delivered Jerusalem from Assyrian siege (2 Kings 19), demonstrating His sovereignty over nations and circumstances.

Verse-by-Verse Breakdown

"He says, 'Be still'"

'Be still' (Hebrew: raphah) literally means 'let go, release, cease striving.' It's a command to stop our frantic activity, anxiety, and self-reliance. In context, it means cease fighting and recognize God is fighting for you.

"and know that I am God"

'Know' (Hebrew: yada) is experiential knowledge, not just intellectual assent. When we cease striving, we can truly experience and recognize God's character, power, and presence. 'I am God' affirms His sovereignty over all.

"I will be exalted among the nations"

God will demonstrate His supremacy over all earthly powers. His glory will be recognized universally, not just by Israel. This gives perspective—our battles are part of God's larger purpose to reveal Himself.

"I will be exalted in the earth"

God's sovereignty extends over all creation. Ultimately, every knee will bow and every tongue confess His lordship. This certainty allows us to 'be still'—the outcome is secure.

Key Themes

Stillness before GodTrust in God's sovereigntyCeasing from strivingGod's ultimate victoryPeace in turmoil

Applying This Verse to Your Life

  1. 1

    Create regular times of silence and stillness to experience God's presence rather than constant activity.

  2. 2

    When anxious or overwhelmed, practice releasing control and trusting God's sovereignty.

  3. 3

    Stop trying to fight all your battles in your own strength; let God fight for you.

  4. 4

    Develop the discipline of meditation on God's character and promises.

  5. 5

    Remember that God's purposes will prevail, allowing you to rest rather than strive.

Questions for Reflection

  • What do you need to stop striving about and surrender to God?
  • How can you create more stillness in your life to truly know God?
  • Are you trying to control circumstances that God wants you to release to Him?
  • What would change if you truly believed God will be exalted and His purposes will prevail?

Related Scripture

Exodus 14:14

"The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still."

Psalm 37:7

"Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways."

Isaiah 30:15

"In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength."

Mark 4:39

"He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, 'Quiet! Be still!' Then the wind died down."

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