In our tumultuous world, what does ‘Be still, and know that I am God’ (Psalm 46:10 NIV) really mean?

Psalm 46:10 is a very well-known verse that is often used to comfort ourselves and others. Many people think that this verse means to rest or relax in who God is. As much as that is true, there is much more to this Psalm than one verse and verse 10 is actually more of a wake-up call to be in wonder of who God really is than a gentle call to rest. In fact, it’s taking time out of our day to meditate on God’s Word and be silent with listening ears towards God, as mentioned in other sections of Scripture: ‘I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word’ (Psalm 119:15 NIV). And the context of ‘Be still…’ in this Psalm was written in a real time of turmoil and war. Therefore, we should consider the verse with that context in mind.

Also, important to know the Hebrew word for ‘still’ that is used in this Psalm means to ‘sink down, relax, let go, cease striving, or withdraw.’

Therefore, 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 God’s people. So, we should interpret it to read more like ‘snap out of it’, ‘wake up’, ‘stop fearing’ and acknowledge who your God is and be in wonder of it all! 

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 understand the context of the Psalm. Verse 10 speaks to both of God’s enemies as well as to God’s people, but it is for the people of God the Psalm is written for. In fact, the Psalm starts by saying, ‘God is our refuge and strength’ (Psalm 46:1 NIV). These words are also for us today to know God in similar context and therefore acknowledging and committing to the fact that God is our only refuge worth running towards, yes, the only place that will stand strong through every circumstance of life.

Therefore, whatever you are battling with today, be assured that you can find stillness in your time of trouble. For God really loves you, and cares for you, and He not only wants you to be still in His presence but desires for you to discover that He is the only one who can bring real PEACE in unprecedented times. So, STOP! and reflect on the mightiness of your God and remember He is far bigger than any of your troubles.

Never forget, our enemies will see our God exalted in all the earth. Therefore, do not fear because your God is with you and He will triumph over all circumstances that you may be facing right now.

One of the most amazing takeaways from Psalm 46, in my opinion, is that God is the defender of His own name, His people and His Word. He is our only protector; He rules and reigns and is our everlasting refuge. His actions are not deterred by our fear and concerns or our distracted minds. God is still God and will always be there and protect those who believe in His name and trust in Him.

On a practical note, here are some steps on how to ‘Be Still and Silent’ in times of trouble: 

1. Silence external distractions.

The Enemy of your soul wants you to be distracted; therefore it is vitally important to remove all distractions that preoccupy you. In this fast-paced world in which we are living, it is easy to be overwhelmed with busyness and activities. You may feel that you can’t slow down, but your busy schedule must not get in the way of having time alone with God which will allow you to discover true stillness in the middle of your busyness.

My advice to you is that you cannot afford not to find a specific time to be still with God. You need to be intentional in turning off any distracting noise in the background and make time in your busy schedule to experience God’s manifested presence. This time should not be negotiable! 

2. Silence internal distractions.

Besides removing external distractions, it is very important to silence our inner being. That is, banish all the thoughts within us that pull our attention away from being still. If something needs to be taken care of later, then write it down and forget about it for now – it will still be waiting for you later! Personally, to help me switch off from thoughts and distractions, I often start my time to be still by listening to some worship songs and that helps me to concentrate and not be distracted.

So today remember intentionality is not an option but a necessity. SO BE INTENTIONAL and be still. Know that He is God and still able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.