Be still and know that i am god

How to «Be Still and Know I am God» (Even During Hard Times)

The Psalmist wrote,

“Be still, and know that I am God!
I will be honored by every nation.
I will be honored throughout the world” (Psalm 46:10)

The context of this verse makes its message all the more fascinating and appropriate for our times. What a perfect time to heed its meaning.

Before we dive into the context of this verse, let’s explore more Scripture that talks about being still.

Exodus 14:14: «The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.”

As Christians, we do not have to fight our battles alone. In fact, we need to depend on God to sustain us in the midst of the most difficult of trials.

Mark 4:39: «And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.»

Even the wind and the waves obey his voice. In the midst of the storm, we may wonder, «Where is God.» But we do not need to fear if he will abandon us. He never has and he never will.

Isaiah 32:17: «And the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.»

Have you ever heard of the concept of Shalom? The way things are meant to be? When we trust in the Lord, we experience a taste of Shalom. Shalom means stillness, means righteousness, and everlasting trust.

Now that we’ve explored some verses on being still, let’s talk about what the Psalmist meant above.

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What Does it Mean to «Be Still and Know That I am God»?

“Be still” or “cease striving” (in NASB and KJV) come from the Hebrew word transliterated raphah. This translation from Blue Letter Bible says it means to let drop, relax, to let go, to be quiet, to be still.

What a beautiful contrast. When the earth shakes, mountains crumble, and waters foam and churn, we can quiet our hearts in the Lord. When the nations are in chaos and the whole world panics, God’s people can have peace. We who know the Lord can drop our worries at His feet; we can let go of our disappointments and rest in His unchanging character. He remains our fortress in time of trouble.

As explosives and earthquakes cause mountains to tremble, the coronavirus has shaken the whole world. Many health workers, exposed to this deadly virus, work without proper protection. The infected worry they won’t get proper care. Grandparents are isolated from their children and grandchildren. Those who can’t work wonder if their businesses will survive. While this pandemic has rocked us physically, emotionally, and financially, the mountains still stand.

Psalm 46 describes a time when the whole earth is literally shaken. During this time, the earth gives way, mountains crumble, and oceans churn.

“God is our refuge and strength,
always ready to help in times of trouble.
So we will not fear when earthquakes come
and the mountains crumble into the sea.

Let the oceans roar and foam.
Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge! …

The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;
the God of Israel is our fortress” (Ps. 46:1-3, 11).

In spite of these fearful descriptions, this Psalm inspires hope. Though the earth crumble and the nations fall into chaos—when the worst we can imagine occurs—those who take refuge in God will not be shaken.

Photo credit: Unsplash/Colton Duke

Other Translations for Psalm 46:10 «Be Still and Know»

The New American Standard Bible says, “Cease striving and know that I am God” instead of “be still.” Both terms address the need to quiet our hearts in the knowledge and presence of God. We may need to be physically still in order to quiet our state of mind and gain an eternal perspective. Quiet helps us remember God’s character and sovereignty (Lam. 3:20-26). He is over all and supports us no matter how our circumstances look.

The Message translation depicts a more modern picture. “Step out of the traffic! Take a long, loving look at me, your High God, above politics, above everything.”

We might say, instead of filling your mind with bad news from the TV and the internet, read your Bible! Dwell on the Lord. Remember His faithfulness and power.

Perhaps you can relate to the circumstances is this Psalm. The world as you knew it has been shaken. Perhaps your health, a relationship, your dreams for your children, or your finances have turned to dust before your eyes. You need the ever-present help only the Lord can supply. Why not take this time to be still and remember the words of the Psalmist?

There are plenty of ways that you can do this, and now is an ideal time to try a new type of Bible study. Maybe you’d like to find a devotional to follow along with, or you can start a Bible study group through video chat with some friends.

Who Wrote Psalm 46 and What is the Context of This Scripture?

Psalm 46 is one of many Psalms written by the sons of Korah. It was sung as part of Israel’s worship. R.R. Hutton writes in The Anchor Yale Bible Dictionary that Korah was “one of the principal families involved in leadership in the Jerusalem temple. The earliest attestation to the role of the Korahites is perhaps to be seen in 2 Chr. 20:19, where the Korahites are listed alongside the Kohathites as leading the people in praise.”

What Is the Historical Context?

This Psalm addresses Israel in a time of turmoil. The reference to burning shields/chariots, bows and spears, the nations in uproar, and God’s holy city not falling suggests this chaos came from war (v. 5, 6, 9). It reminds Israel that God dwells in His holy city Jerusalem (v. 4-5). He is her ever-present help (v. 1). He will not forsake her in time of destruction.

The Bible often used current happenings to point to future events. The Ryrie Study Bible notes, “While the invasion of Sennacherib during the reign of Hezekiah (2 Kings 18:13-19:37) may form the historical background for this Psalm, it seems to anticipate Psalm 47, which is a song of God’s kinship, and thus ultimately refers to the millennial reign of Christ.”

While it may have been written in war times, the earth wasn’t literally falling apart, even though it probably felt that way to those whose lives were turned upside down. The Bible says there will be cataclysmic changes on the earth surrounding the return of the Lord. This Psalm could point to that time. However, other commentators suggest that the catastrophic description of the earth falling apart is hyperbolic language to show its truths suit any devastating event humankind may face.

Photo credit: ©Getty Images/Casey Hill Photo

How Can We Be Still and Know in Turbulent Times?

This time when we’ve been asked to stay at home is ideal for being still in God’s presence. Do you have a habit of meeting with Him each day to read His word and hear His perspective? This is a perfect time to choose a book of the Bible and begin to work your way through it. Read and meditate on what it says. How do its words apply to you in your current situation? Keep a journal of your insights and prayers.

If you prefer a Bible study guide or workbook, pick one and ask God to speak to you each day. We don’t have to jump around searching for answers. He uses our daily time with Him to renew our thinking and guide us.

When God gives you a promise from His word, claim it. Whenever your heart begins to race, be still and declare God’s promise out loud.

The Lord now dwells in the hearts of believers. Jesus is Emmanuel, God with us. And He has promised, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you” (Hebrews 13:5). When we have that settled in our hearts, we have a message to share with a fearful world.

My friend Nancy was in Manilla with a team of Christian students several years ago when a big earthquake collapsed tall buildings, killing many people. The earthquake rocked the people living there with great fear. They came out in throngs, open to hear the good news that Jesus saves! 50,000 people gave their lives to Christ that week.

This time of fear is a time of opportunity for the church. But first we must be still and know that Jesus is Lord!

Sources

Hutton, R. R. (1992). Korah (Person). In D. N. Freedman (Ed.), The Anchor Yale Bible Dictionary (Vol. 4, p. 100). New York: Doubleday.

Charles Caldwell Ryrie, The Ryrie Study Bible, (Chicago, IL: Moody Press, 1976, 1978), p. 841.

Photo credit: Unsplash/Tim Bogdanov

Debbie W. Wilson is an award-winning author, Bible teacher, and former Christian counselor who speaks and writes to connect fellow sojourners to the heart of Christ. Her books include Give Yourself a Break, Little Women, Big God , and Little Faith, Big God .

What Does «Be Still and Know That I Am God» Really Mean?

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“Be still and know that I am God” Psalm 46:10

Psalm 46:10, is a popular verse for comforting ourselves and others—many people tend to think this verse means to rest or relax in who God is. This verse does encourage believers to reflect on who God is, but there is more to this psalm than one verse—and verse 10 is actually more of a wake-up call to be in awe than a gentle call to rest. Taking time out of our day to meditate on Scripture and be silent with listening ears toward God is mentioned in other sections of Scripture (Psalm 119:15, Joshua 1:8, Luke 5:16, and others). But this command—“Be still…”—is written in the context of a time of trouble and war; therefore, we should consider the verse with that context in mind.

Common Misunderstandings of Psalm 46:10

Instead of interpreting “be still” as a gentle suggestion, the meaning in this psalm lends itself more to: “cease striving” or “stop” and more specifically in this context “stop fighting,” which is directed toward the enemies of the people of God. The people of God should interpret the command for themselves to read more like: ‘snap out of it,’ ‘wake up,’ ‘stop fearing’—acknowledge who your God is—be in awe! However, it is good to note that there’s nothing wrong with the words in the translation “be still;” those words are not incorrect, it is simply helpful to note the context of the phrase. Verse 10 has something to say to both the enemies of God and the people of God, but it is the people of God the psalm is written to. Verse 1 starts, “God is our refuge and strength” (emphasis added). The Psalms are for God’s people.

In this article we’ll take a look at the context of Psalm 46:10 and the various views on it; let’s start by reading Psalm 46 in its entirety.

The Message of Psalm 46:

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns. The nations rage, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
Come, behold the works of the LORD, how he has brought desolations on the earth. He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the chariots with fire. «Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!» The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah”

Need to focus more on a consistent prayer life? Download our FREE 31-Day Prayer Guide through Romans to help get yourself back on track today

What Is the Real Meaning of «Be Still and Know»?

John Casteel, Senior Pastor of The Bridge in South Carolina and former pastor of mine, points out that “be still” is the same thing that Jesus says to the wind and the waves in Mark 4:39. The wind and the sea completely died down in silence, in awe and worship of the Creator. Casteel continues,

“There is a silence and stillness that should overtake us in the presence of someone that is so overwhelmingly holy and glorious. The call to all is to be still before our holy, awesome, and glorious God.”

To summarize Casteel, as more knowledge and worship flow out of the city Zion—that is God’s message shared with the world—the more people will come to know him and understand his ultimate security and enjoy his presence. God’s goal in being with his people is so they can accomplish his purpose, to spread knowledge of him so more and more people can come to know him.

The people of God must stop what they are doing and acknowledge that God alone is the sovereign ruler of the universe and commit to following him. He will one day stop all wars and he will be exalted among the nations (the Gentiles and Jewish believers as one family, the Church) and all the earth. There will be no question of who God is and what he is doing.

At God’s voice the earth melts, the enemies cease fighting, and the people of God remember who their God is. God commands stillness and silence, but why is this important for the people of God? The people of God were prone to fear; they needed to remember who their God is. We don’t need to fear the end of our life—even in the midst of battle—because we’re going to that city; we’re going to Zion one day. We will dwell with God and there will be no more wars, no pain, and no end (See Rev. 21). We don’t need to fear what the world can do; we need to remember who our God is and we need to share that knowledge with others.

So, there’s nothing wrong with the translation “Be still” in Psalm 46:10 vs. “Stop fighting” or “Cease striving,” and there’s certainly nothing wrong with believers taking time to be still and quiet before the Lord in prayer. That’s something Christians should do every day, and we have Jesus as our example for that in Luke 5. But is the quiet, meditative interpretation of “be still” the best interpretation for Psalm 46:10 based on the context of the psalm as a whole? Maybe not, as it may take away from the intensity of the psalm—the way that God can command the earth and everything in it to be still before him and it is. But here’s what we need to remember about the application of this verse and the different views.

Regardless of whether we interpret the “be still,” “cease striving,” or “stop” phrase of Psalm 46:10 to be God’s words toward the enemies of the people of God, his people, or both groups, there is great comfort in this psalm that extends past one verse. We should find immense comfort in the fact that our God is an impenetrable refuge, that he will bring glory to his name among the nations and all the earth, and that he will protect his people and bring them to everlasting peace. But God does call us to stop fearing, to be still and commit to him. In order to feel secure, we have to know that we have an impenetrable home with God. Casteel reminds us,

“In order to find security in God, we have to stop finding security in everything else. …Nothing in this world will offer you the security you have in God.”

May stand-alone verses that we see on graphics or read in posts, like Psalm 46:10, always inspire us to read more of God’s Word. When we see the same verses in the future we will remember the deeper context of the passage and be thankful for who God is in our lives and the incredible things he is doing. And we get to be a part of it! Our amazing God, who is so far above us, allows us and encourages us to carry out his purpose with him. If we take away nothing else from this psalm, let us remember the call to spread God’s Word so that others may find the same security we have.

God will make sure his glory is known. His Word reminds us who he is and calls us to worship in awe. Be still and remember who God is, be still and stop fearing, be still and see what God is doing, be still and acknowledge his greatness, be still and know God is with you…now spread the knowledge of who he is!

7 Other Translations of «Be Still and Know»

It’s always enlightening to read a verse in several Bible versions to see what English words translators have used to convey meaning:

English Standard Version
“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”

New American Standard Bible
«Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.»

King James Version
“Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.”

New King James Version
“Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”

Christian Standard Version
«Stop [your fighting]-and know that I am God, exalted among the nations, exalted on the earth.«

New International Version
He says, «Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.»

New Living Translation
«Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.»

The key commands we read in these various translations are “be still,” “cease striving,” and “stop.” The next command “know” is the same in all the above translations, which lends itself in this context to mean “acknowledge” and “be in awe.” God will make sure his name is glorified among the nations and in all the earth.

Two Steps for How to ‘Be Still’ and Silent:

«As we become silent, we have two aims:

1. Remove external distractions.

First, it is important to remove distractions. Life can be fast-paced. We may be overwhelmed with busyness and activities. We may feel we can’t slow down. Our busyness can get in the way of having time alone.

Find a specific time and place for solitude. Turn off any distracting noise in the background. Take the time to experience God’s presence.

2. Silence internal distractions.

The Biblical Background of Psalm 46

Psalm 46 is a song for Zion, God’s holy city where his people dwell with him—the city is holy because God dwells in it. This psalm is all about security with God that God is our true home. It’s mostly written in third-person, but at verse 10 there’s a change and God speaks directly. Throughout the 11 verses, we also read several descriptions about God—his characteristics and attributes: he is our refuge, he is strong, present, and a great help to those who are weak. God is higher than all else and able to rule above all. At his voice the earth melts.

We read this is the God of Jacob, he is with believers, and he is exalted among the nations and in the earth. He is a fortress and protects the weak that belong to him. The psalmist is probably living through some sort of turmoil or war as he mentions the phrases: trouble, the nations rage, the kingdoms totter, war, the spear, bow, and chariots—though the psalm is also pointing forward to a future time when wars will cease. It is clear by the end of the psalm that waring against God is always in vain, and the people of God who are protected by their Mighty Fortress have nothing to fear.

A big takeaway from Psalm 46 is that the people of God are always secure no matter what environment they may be living in on earth—turmoil, war, destruction, etc.—God has secured the souls of believers through his Son Jesus Christ.

Digging Deeper into Psalm 46:10 – What Do the Commentaries Say?

Some commentaries differ on whether to interpret verse 10 as God speaking directly to the enemies of the people of God, God speaking to his people, or God speaking to both his enemies and the people of God in different ways. Let’s take a look at a few.

“Since the address in v. 10, be still, and know, is plural, readers should imagine God speaking these words to the nations, among whom he will eventually be exalted. This is the meaning of the LORD of hosts being with his people (v. 11; cf. Matt. 28:20): he will indeed see to it that the mission of Gen. 12:1–3 is accomplished.”

There is certainly a shift from third-person to first-person, and the ESV points out the grammar of the phrase “be still, and know.” They interpret the phrase as being spoken to the nations.

“The psalmist goes on to encourage the godly to ‘know’ that the Lord is God. Though it was tempting to ally themselves with foreign powers, to rely on military strength, or to give themselves over to idolatry and pagan ways, the godly must learn to persevere to the end. The exhortation ‘be still’ calls on them to stop doing one thing in favor of something else. What their temptation was may be implied from v. 2: ‘Therefore we will not fear.’ Throughout the history of Israel and Judah, severe national distress brought the temptation to abandon true religion for the ephemeral security of political alliances, military strength, and worldly paganism. Instead of choosing a negative option, the people of God distinguish themselves by the pursuit of godliness: ‘Know that I am God.’ The knowledge of God includes factual knowledge about him, his past acts, and his promises. But in this context, the psalmist calls on them to commit themselves to the Lord and to seek his ‘refuge,’ ‘strength,’ and ‘fortress’ (vv. 1, 7, 11). The life of faith is lived continually in commitment to God’s sovereignty, rule, and ultimate exaltation over all the nations (cf. Hab 2:13–14).” (Bold emphasis added).

Knowing God in this context means acknowledging and committing to the fact that God is the only refuge worth running toward—the only refuge that will stand strong through every circumstance.

Commentators from the Past:

In The Treasury of David commentary, Charles Spurgeon noted verse 10 as:

“Be still, and know that I am God. Hold off your hands, ye enemies! Sit down and wait in patience, ye believers! Acknowledge that Jehovah is God, ye who feel the terrors of his wrath! Adore him, and him only, ye who partake in the protection of his grace. Since none can worthily proclaim his nature, let ‘expressive silence muse his praise.’ The boasts of the ungodly and the timorous forebodings of the saints should certainly be hushed by a sight of what the Lord has done in past ages. I will be exalted among the heathen. They forget God, they worship idols, but Jehovah will yet be honoured by them.” (Bold emphasis added)

The enemies of the people of God and the people of God will see God exalted in all the earth. The people of God should not fear because their God is with them and he will triumph over the world.

That is the most remarkable takeaway from Psalm 46 in my opinion—that God is the defender of his own name, his people, and his Word. He alone is our protector, the sovereign ruler, and the everlasting refuge. His actions are not hindered by our fear and worrying or our distracted minds. God is God alone and he will protect those who believe in his name and trust in him.

Present-day Commentators:

J. Ligon Duncan, Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church and professor at Reformed Theological Seminary in Mississippi, wisely summarizes:

“And this is a picture of the aftermath of God’s judgment against His enemies, His war against His enemies. ‘He makes wars to cease to the end of the earth,’ not through negotiation, not through the Department of State, but through obliterating everyone who stands in His ways. God speaks to the opposition. Look at verse 10: ‘Cease striving and know that I am God.’ This is not like God’s word for Moses to the children of Israel at the Red Sea, ‘You stand still and watch what God is going to do to you.’ This is God speaking to His enemies, ‘Silence! I will reign.’ This is God’s announcement of His rule and judgment against them. ‘Knock it off!’ He says. ‘I will reign on earth.’

And the city of God doesn’t make this happen. The people of God don’t make this happen. We’re simply called to trust and to be faithful. God does this. This informs our whole approach to the Christian life. You see, the world thinks that God’s word is so weak. How can God’s word overthrow the world? You just watch it. ‘Be silenced! I will reign.’ God, by His word, accomplishes His victory. All we’re called to do is trust in that word and be faithful in walking in its way. And we stand still, and we, as His people, behold Him bring about the salvation that He has promised. May God enable us in the midst of our own troubles to trust in Him, even as the Psalmist did.”

How amazing is this reminder! That God’s voice has power over all. God used his voice to create the universe, the earth, and everything in it including us. He uses his voice to accomplish his glory and protect his people victoriously. He will put an end to all wars at the end of the age by using his voice. This is something to be still and stand in awe of.

How often do we think about judgment as good news? Judgment means there will be an end to all the wars and fighting; one day God will end this cursed world with the sound of his voice and the new heaven and earth will begin.

Pastor Steve Moulson, of Church Hill Presbyterian, relays:

«The New American Standard translates ‘Be still’ as ‘cease striving.’ I think the focus of the message in this case is the people of God, since the Psalm begins ‘God is our refuge and strength…’ The goal is to point the Israelites to a knowledge that even though the nations may be powerful, that God is more so. Even the rage of nations only causes kingdoms to totter, but when God speaks the whole earth just melts! The Israelites are not ultimately responsible for their own protection, God is.»

A Prayer to Be Still and Know

Dear God, How majestic is your name in all the earth! You are our mighty fortress, our refuge in times of strife, and our protector no matter what circumstance we find ourselves in. Thank you that as a believer, I can be still and know that you are God! Thank you that you do not leave us in the hands of our enemies; thank you that one day all fighting will stop and all wars will cease at the sound of your voice. That on that glorious day Lord your people will be with you, knowing that you are their God forever and ever. Holy Spirit please give us hope until that day, challenge us to live as your people, and grant us grace and forgiveness for our mistakes and wrongdoings.

In your worthy name Jesus, by which all this is possible, amen.

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Video Credits: Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash https://unsplash.com/photos/xbG7QRCJ7Ts Photo by Dave Hoefler on Unsplash https://unsplash.com/photos/i0K3-IHiXYI Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash https://unsplash.com/photos/OcmJ0ll0z7Q Photo by eberhard grossgasteiger on Unsplash https://unsplash.com/photos/BXasVMRGsuo Audio Credit: https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/9468

This article is part of our larger resource library of popular Bible verse phrases and quotes. We want to provide easy to read articles that answer your questions about the meaning, origin, and history of specific verses within Scripture’s context. It is our hope that these will help you better understand the meaning and purpose of God’s Word in relation to your life today.

What Does ‘Be Still and Know That I am God’ Mean in Psalms 46:10?

“Be still and know that I am God,” the first half of Psalms 46:10, is a popular verse used to encourage believers to be still and silent before the Lord. This interpretation promotes a healthy rest in the presence of the Lord.

«Come, behold the works of the LORD, how he has brought desolations on the earth. He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the chariots with fire. «Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!» The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah

The Context of Psalms 46

Psalms 46 opens with instructions for how this Psalm (or song) was to be performed in worship. We see before the Psalm begins that it is written to the “sons of Korah”. As Charles Spurgeon writes in his Treasury of David, “trifles may be left to commoner songsters, but the most skillful musician in Israel must be charged with the due performance of this song, with the most harmonious voices and choicest music.” Therefore, these instructions suggest that this particular Psalm carried enormous meaning and held a place of extreme significance in the time it was written in that should only be performed by chosen musicians and skilled singers.

Psalms 46 then continues in the third person as the songwriter describes the attributes of the Lord. It’s apparent from the language described in the early verses of Psalms 46 that the writer is probably living through a time of war, conflict, or at the very least, personal strife. It is also possible that Israel itself was facing war or international conflict when this was written and that the songwriter wrote to encourage the children of Israel to stand in the strength of the Lord.

Knowing this provides incredible insight into the interpretation of Psalms 46:10. In every situation described in this chapter, the writer emphasizes that the Lord is a “refuge and strength” and their “stronghold”. More importantly, “The Lord of hosts is with us”. This is actually repeated twice in this Bible chapter.

The entirety of Psalms 46 is written in the third person to remind the reader (or listener) that God is their strength and at work in the midst of their struggle. When we reach verse 10, however, something happens. The point of view shifts from third person to second person. Instead of writing about the Lord, here the Lord Himself addresses the reader/listener directly.

“Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth” (Psalms 46:10).

Like all great poetry, when form or pattern is broken, it forces the reader to pay attention. Something important is about to be communicated. The change in point of view cues us to pay attention.

Who Is God Telling to Be Still?

There are several interpretations and theories regarding the subject of God’s address in Psalms 46:10. Both are meaningful, and it is quite possible that God addresses both subjects.

One interpretation suggests that God is directly speaking to Israel’s enemies. It’s important to note that this is unlikely since the rest of the Psalm is focused on encouraging and strengthening the children of Israel. To shift into the second person is one thing, but to conclude that God is a shift to an entirely different audience for only one verse might be a bit of a stretch. An indirect audience? Absolutely. But the Psalms are primarily written for the people of God, and this seems to be the case here as well.

If we accept, however, that the Lord does address Israel’s enemies, He would essentially be telling them to “cease striving”, or in this case, “stop fighting” His chosen people. In communicating to Israel’s enemies, He would be also making His presence known across the earth as true to prophesy, one day, every tongue will confess that He is Lord (Romans 14:11).

Another way to read this verse would be to stop fighting and see that I have chosen Israel as my people. I will stand by them and defend them against all enemies, including you. So back off! I am the Lord. I am powerful. I am in charge. And I will be exalted.

The second interpretation, which is probably more accurate, sees God address the children of Israel, His chosen people, directly.

The Meaning of Psalms 46:10

As God addresses Israel, He is not just telling them to “be still” or “rest”. If this is written during a time of war, which it most likely is, God is commanding them to “stop fighting” and open their eyes to who He is. In some translations, it is phrased as “cease striving.”

It’s easy to be fearful when things aren’t going well or when we are faced with challenges and conflicts in our life. In the midst of their struggle, however, God tells His people to wake up and recognize who’s on their side.

In that light, the tone of this verse can be read: stop striving, stop fighting, and stop trying to do things on your own. Stop stressing about the battle ahead and trust me. Wake up! I am the Lord. I am your refuge and your strength. You have nothing to fear or worry about when I am with you. I will fight your battles and deal with your enemies. So get out of my way. Step back, open your eyes, and acknowledge who I am and what I can do. Let me be God. Don’t try and do my job for me. Be patient, be still, and let me go to work.

This verse would have been an encouragement to the children of Israel in a time of war and can be just as comforting to believers today in their struggle and strife.

“Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”

In the midst of conflict and life turmoil, sometimes we just need to open our eyes, step back, stop what we’re doing, and acknowledge who God is and what He can do. Doing so provides comfort in the chaos and peace in the midst of struggle.

Bible Verses about Stillness

«The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.”

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices!

And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

Joel Ryan is an LA-based children’s and young adult author who teaches writing and communications at Life Pacific University. As a former youth pastor, he has a heart for children and young adults and is passionate about engaging youth through writing and storytelling. His blog, Perspectives Off the Page, discusses the creative and spiritual life through story and art.

Be still and know that i am god

New International Version
He says, &#8220Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.&#8221

New Living Translation
“Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.”

English Standard Version
“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”

Berean Study Bible
“Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted over the earth.”

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

New King James Version
Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!

New American Standard Bible
“Stop striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted on the earth.”

NASB 1995
&#8220Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.&#8221

NASB 1977
“Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”

Amplified Bible
“Be still and know (recognize, understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth.”

Christian Standard Bible
“Stop fighting, and know that I am God, exalted among the nations, exalted on the earth.”

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Stop your fighting—and know that I am God, exalted among the nations, exalted on the earth.&#8221

American Standard Version
Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
Return and know that I AM GOD. I am exalted among the nations and I am exalted in the Earth.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.

Contemporary English Version
Our God says, «Calm down, and learn that I am God! All nations on earth will honor me.»

Douay-Rheims Bible
Be still and see that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, and I will be exalted in the earth.

Good News Translation
«Stop fighting,» he says, «and know that I am God, supreme among the nations, supreme over the world.»

International Standard Version
Be in awe and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted throughout the earth.

JPS Tanakh 1917
Let be, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.’

Literal Standard Version
Desist, and know that I [am] God, I am exalted among nations, I am exalted in the earth.

New American Bible
“Be still and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, exalted on the earth.”

NET Bible
He says, «Stop your striving and recognize that I am God! I will be exalted over the nations! I will be exalted over the earth!»

New Revised Standard Version
“Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth.”

New Heart English Bible
«Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the earth.»

World English Bible
«Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the earth.»

Young’s Literal Translation
Desist, and know that I am God, I am exalted among nations, I am exalted in the earth.

Psalm 46:11
The LORD of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah

Psalm 100:3
Know that the LORD is God. It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.

Isaiah 2:11
The proud look of man will be humbled, and the loftiness of men brought low; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day.

Isaiah 2:17
So the pride of man will be brought low, and the loftiness of men will be humbled; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day,

Isaiah 37:20
And now, O LORD our God, save us from his hand, so that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that You alone, O LORD, are God.»

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

Habakkuk 2:20 But the LORD is in his holy temple: let all the earth keep silence before him.

Zechariah 2:13 Be silent, O all flesh, before the LORD: for he is raised up out of his holy habitation.

Psalm 83:18 That men may know that thou, whose name alone is JEHOVAH, art the most high over all the earth.

Psalm 100:3 Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Exodus 18:11 Now I know that the LORD is greater than all gods: for in the thing wherein they dealt proudly he was above them.

Psalm 21:13 Be thou exalted, LORD, in thine own strength: so will we sing and praise thy power.

Psalm 57:5 Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens; let thy glory be above all the earth.

1 Chronicles 29:11 Thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all.

that
כִּי־ (kî-)
Conjunction
Strong’s 3588: A relative conjunction

What does it mean to be still and know that I am God?

This popular saying comes from Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God; / I will be exalted among the nations, / I will be exalted in the earth.”

This verse comes from a longer section of Scripture that proclaims the power and security of God. While the threat the psalmist faced is not mentioned specifically, it seems to relate to the pagan nations and a call for God to end the raging war. Here is the whole psalm:

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts. The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Come and see what the LORD has done, the desolations he has brought on the earth. He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire. He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.’ The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.”

Notice that the majority of the psalm is written in the third person as the psalmist speaks about God. However, God’s voice comes through in verse 10, and the Lord speaks in the first person: “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”

Be still. This is a call for those involved in the war to stop fighting, to be still. The word still is a translation of the Hebrew word rapa, meaning “to slacken, let down, or cease.” In some instances, the word carries the idea of “to drop, be weak, or faint.” It connotes two people fighting until someone separates them and makes them drop their weapons. It is only after the fighting has stopped that the warriors can acknowledge their trust in God. Christians often interpret the command to “be still” as “to be quiet in God’s presence.” While quietness is certainly helpful, the phrase means to stop frantic activity, to let down, and to be still. For God’s people being “still” would involve looking to the Lord for their help (cf. Exodus 14:13); for God’s enemies, being “still” would mean ceasing to fight a battle they cannot win.

Know that I am God. Know in this instance means “to properly ascertain by seeing” and “acknowledge, be aware.” How does acknowledging God impact our stillness? We know that He is omniscient (all-knowing), omnipresent (present everywhere), omnipotent (all-powerful), holy, sovereign, faithful, infinite, and good. Acknowledging God implies that we can trust Him and surrender to His plan because we understand who He is.

I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. It was tempting for the nation of Israel to align with foreign powers, and God reminds them that ultimately He is exalted! God wins, and He will bring peace. During Isaiah’s time, Judah looked for help from the Egyptians, even though God warned against it. Judah did not need Egyptian might; they needed reliance on the Lord: “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength” (Isaiah 30:15).

When we are still and surrendered to God, we find peace even when the earth gives way, the mountains fall (verse 2), or the nations go into an uproar and kingdoms fall (verse 6). When life gets overwhelming and busyness takes precedence, remember Psalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Run to Him, lay down your weapons and fall into His arms. Acknowledge that He is God and that He is exalted in the earth. Be still and know that He is God.