He says, “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 (NIV)
Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. – Psalms 46:10 (KJV)
Click here for printable verse cards: Week 8 – Printable Cards
Prior to verse 10, Psalms 46 highlights God’s almighty power over the Earth and all nations that war (or rebel) against Him (or His people). Verse 1 (NIV) says “…God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear…”, then verses 8 and 9 add “Come and see what the Lord has done…He makes wars cease…He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields[d] with fire.”
Now, with that context, let’s break down verse 10…
Be still – The Hebrew word translated here as “be still” is râphâh, which means to let fall, to let hang down, to slacken or to relax (as in letting your hands hang down in a non-aggressive posture). Some Bible versions translate râphâh as “cease striving” or “be silent.”
And know that I am God – He is sovereign. He is all powerful. He is the one and only God.
I will be exalted among the nations – One day all people and all nations will honor God and recognize His sovereignty.
I will be exalted in the earth – Christ will return and He will reign over all of the earth.
For enemies of God (or those who rebel against Him), this is a warning: Stand down…He is the supreme God and He will reign over all creation!
For followers of God, this is a great comfort: Be still and know that our almighty God is in control.
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