Psalm 46:10 (NLT) “Be still, and know that I am God!
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!
“To be still” is the same thing that Jesus says to the wind and the waves.
Mark 4:39 (NLT) “When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Silence! Be still!” Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm.”
Psalm 46:10 (NLT) “Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honoured by every nation. I will be honoured throughout the world.”
Psalm 46:10 (CSV) “Stop [your fighting]-and know that I am God, exalted among the nations, exalted on the earth.”
The most remarkable takeaway from this is 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.
Exodus 14:14 (ESV) “The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.”
Psalm 37:7 (ESV) “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him”
Psalm 131:2 (ESV) “But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me”
Steven Curtis Chapman wrote the following song: “Be still and know that he is God. Be still and know that he is holy. Be still oh restless soul of mine. Bow before the prince of peace. Let the noise and clamour cease. Be still and know that he is God. Be still and know that he is faithful. Consider all that he has done. Stand in awe and be amazed. And know that he will never change. Be still. Be still and know that he is God. Be still and know that he is God. Be still and know that he is God. Be still. Be speechless. Be still and know…”
“In the rush and noise of life, as you have intervals, step home within yourselves and be still. Wait upon God, and feel His good presence; this will carry you evenly through your day’s business.” William Penn
“The quieter you become, the more you can hear.” ― Ram Dass
Be still and relax in the Lord. He is in control. Remember the times that He has helped you. God promises to help you and never leave you. Talk to Him, trust in Him, be still, and you will hear His calming voice and rest upon His strength.