“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
The nations raged. The kingdoms were moved.
He lifted his voice, and the earth melted.
Yahweh of Armies is with us.
The God of Jacob is our refuge.
Selah.
Come, see Yahweh’s works,
what desolations he has made in the earth.
He makes wars cease to the end of the earth.
He breaks the bow, and shatters the spear.
He burns the chariots in the fire.
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.”
Yahweh of Armies is with us.
The God of Jacob is our refuge.
Selah.
Meaning:
This verse is a profound declaration of God's sovereignty and a call for us to find peace in His supreme authority. It is a psalm of trust and confidence in God’s protection and presence. It emphasizes that God is a refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
Imagery of Stability: The psalm uses vivid imagery of natural disasters and chaos to illustrate that even in the midst of such turmoil, God remains our steadfast refuge. Verses 2-3 describe mountains falling into the sea and waters roaring and foaming, yet the psalmist declares that we will not fear because God is with us.
Divine Intervention: Verses 4-9 contrast the chaos with the serene presence of God in His holy city and His ability to bring desolations and peace upon the earth.
- Key Elements of the Verse:
Be Still: This command is both a call to cease striving and an invitation to calmness and reflection. It implies stopping our frantic activity and anxiety to recognize God’s presence and sovereignty.
Know That I Am God: This calls for an acknowledgment of God’s supreme power and authority. It is an invitation to deepen our understanding and trust in His nature.
Exalted Among the Nations... in the Earth: God’s ultimate purpose and plan will prevail, and His glory will be recognized worldwide. This assurance points to God’s overarching plan and the certainty of His victory.
Theological Significance
- God’s Sovereignty and Power:
Supreme Authority: The verse underscores God’s absolute control over all circumstances. Despite the turmoil and chaos in the world, God’s sovereignty remains unchallenged.
Universal Exaltation: God's plan includes His glorification among all nations, emphasizing the global and eternal scope of His rule.
- Human Dependence on God:
Call to Trust: The command to "be still" highlights our need to depend on God rather than our own efforts. It is a call to surrender our anxieties and trust in His provision and protection.
Peace in God’s Presence: Recognizing God’s sovereignty brings peace. Knowing that God is in control allows us to experience calmness and security, even in uncertain times.
Applications for Our Lives
- Finding Peace in Turbulence:
Cease Striving: In our busy and often chaotic lives, we need to intentionally stop and recognize God's presence. This could involve setting aside time for prayer, meditation, and reflection on His word.
Trust in God’s Plan: When faced with uncertainty and challenges, remember that God’s plan is perfect, and He is in control. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths."
- Deepening Our Knowledge of God:
Study and Reflection: Deepen your understanding of God through studying the Bible and reflecting on His nature and works. This builds a foundation of trust and confidence in His sovereignty.
Experience God’s Presence: Seek to experience God’s presence in your daily life. Psalm 46:1 states, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." Recognizing His presence can bring comfort and reassurance.
- Living with Assurance:
Confidence in God’s Victory: Live with the assurance that God will be exalted and His purposes will be fulfilled. This perspective helps us face the future with hope and confidence.
Proclaiming God’s Glory: Share the message of God’s sovereignty and His deeds with others. Matthew 5:16 encourages us, "Even so, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven."
Cross-References:
Exodus 14:14: "The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace." This verse parallels Psalm 46:10, emphasizing the need to be still and trust in God's deliverance and protection.
Psalm 37:7: "Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him. Don’t fret because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who makes wicked plots happen." This verse encourages us to rest in the Lord and be patient, trusting in His timing and justice.
Isaiah 2:11: "The lofty looks of man will be brought low, the haughtiness of men will be bowed down, and the Lord alone will be exalted in that day." This passage highlights the ultimate exaltation of God and the humbling of human pride, reinforcing the message of God's supreme authority and glory.
Conclusion: Psalm 46:10 serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and a call for us to find peace in His presence. Amidst life's chaos and uncertainty, this verse encourages us to cease our striving, trust in God's ultimate plan, and deepen our knowledge of Him. By recognizing God's authority and experiencing His presence, we can live with assurance and confidence, knowing that He will be exalted among the nations and in all the earth.
For us today, this verse challenges us to prioritize our relationship with God, to seek His presence and peace, and to trust in His sovereign plan. As we "be still and know" that He is God, we can experience the tranquility and strength that come from His unchanging and all-powerful nature.
peace - soldier - team - valor
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible