Psalm 46:10

"Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted over the earth."

Study Bible

Be still
The phrase "Be still" comes from the Hebrew word "raphah," which means to relax, let go, or cease striving. In the context of Psalm 46, this command is a call to stop frantic activity and to rest in the sovereignty of God. Historically, this psalm is attributed to the sons of Korah and is often associated with times of trouble or war. The command to "be still" is a reminder that human efforts are futile without divine intervention. It is an invitation to trust in God's power and presence, acknowledging that He is in control even amidst chaos.

and know
The Hebrew word for "know" is "yada," which implies an intimate, experiential knowledge rather than mere intellectual understanding. This suggests a deep, personal relationship with God, cultivated through faith and trust. In the biblical context, "knowing" God involves recognizing His character, His promises, and His faithfulness. It is a call to deepen one's relationship with the Creator, moving beyond surface-level belief to a profound, life-altering awareness of His presence and power.

that I am God
This declaration is a powerful affirmation of God's identity and authority. The use of "I am" echoes the divine name revealed to Moses in Exodus 3:14, "I AM WHO I AM," signifying God's eternal, self-existent nature. In the historical and scriptural context, this statement serves as a reminder of God's supremacy over all nations and circumstances. It reassures believers that, despite the turmoil around them, God remains sovereign and unchanging. This acknowledgment calls for reverence, worship, and submission to His will.

I will be exalted among the nations
The phrase "I will be exalted" reflects God's ultimate plan for His glory to be recognized worldwide. The Hebrew root "rum" means to be high, lifted up, or exalted. This prophetic declaration points to a future where God's majesty and authority will be acknowledged by all peoples. Historically, this aligns with the biblical narrative of God's redemptive plan through Israel and ultimately through Christ, who commissions His followers to make disciples of all nations. It is a call to participate in God's mission, confident that His purposes will prevail.

I will be exalted in the earth
This reiteration emphasizes the scope of God's glory, extending beyond Israel to encompass the entire earth. The earth, in Hebrew "erets," signifies the whole world, highlighting the universal nature of God's reign. This assurance of God's exaltation provides hope and encouragement to believers, affirming that despite current challenges, God's kingdom will be established, and His glory will fill the earth. It is a reminder of the eschatological promise that every knee will bow and every tongue confess that He is Lord, as foretold in Philippians 2:10-11.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The central figure in this verse, emphasizing His sovereignty and power over all creation.

2. Nations
Represents the various peoples and countries of the world, highlighting the universal scope of God's dominion.

3. Earth
The physical realm where God's glory and power are to be recognized and exalted.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Sovereignty
Recognize that God is in control of all circumstances, and His plans will be fulfilled regardless of human actions.

Practicing Stillness
In a world filled with noise and chaos, intentionally create moments of quiet to focus on God's presence and power.

Trusting in God's Exaltation
Have confidence that God will be glorified among all nations and throughout the earth, regardless of current events.

Responding to Anxiety with Faith
When faced with fear or uncertainty, remember to be still and trust in God's promises and His ultimate authority.

Living with Eternal Perspective
Keep in mind that God's purposes extend beyond our immediate situations, and His glory will be revealed in His timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty in Psalm 46:10 impact your response to personal challenges?

2. In what ways can you practice being still in your daily life to better recognize God's presence and power?

3. How does the promise of God's exaltation among the nations influence your perspective on global events?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to replace anxiety with trust in God's control, as encouraged by Psalm 46:10?

5. How can you apply the message of Psalm 46:10 to encourage others who may be struggling with fear or uncertainty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14:14
This verse speaks of the Lord fighting for His people, encouraging them to be still, which parallels the call to trust in God's sovereignty in Psalm 46:10.

Isaiah 2:11
This passage discusses the humbling of human pride and the exaltation of the Lord alone, resonating with the theme of God's exaltation in Psalm 46:10.

Philippians 4:6-7
These verses encourage believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, promising peace, which aligns with the call to be still and trust in God's control.