What Does it Mean to “Be Still and know that I am God”?

This popular verse comes from Psalm 46:10. It comes from a longer section of Scripture that proclaims the power and security of God. Christians often interpret the command to “be still” as “to be quiet in God’s presence.” While quietness is certainly helpful, the phrase means to stop frantic activity, to let down, and to be still. For God’s people being “still” would involve letting go of everything else and looking to the Lord for their help (Exodus 14:13).

“Know that I am God” means “to properly discover by seeing” and “acknowledge, be aware.” How does acknowledging God impact our stillness? We know that He is omniscient (all-knowing), omnipresent (present everywhere), omnipotent (all-powerful), holy, sovereign, faithful, infinite, and good. Acknowledging God implies that we can trust Him and surrender to His plan because we understand who He is.

When we are still and surrendered to God, we find peace even when the earth gives way, the mountains fall (verse 2), or the nations go into an uproar and kingdoms fall (verse 6). When life gets overwhelming and busyness takes precedence, remember Psalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Run to Him, lay down your weapons and fall into His arms. When we can be still before the Lord, our thoughts become focussed on Him and we can hear Him speak the things He would like us to hear. Acknowledge that He is God and that He is exalted in the earth. Be still and know that He is God.

Contributed by Louise McLachlan