The 46th Psalm begins: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling” (Psalm 46:1-3).
This Psalm is telling us the omni-present God is with us as a refuge and strength. And His presence is guaranteed no matter the circumstance. King David said, “The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth” (Psalm 145:18).
A bulwark never failing;
Our helper He amid the flood
Of mortal ills prevailing.”
—Martin Luther 1483-1546
There is so much uncertainty and confusion at the social, political, and economic levels in the world today. And perhaps Christians may be caught up with it, too. Therefore, God’s intervention is needed for help and deliverance. In Him is our safety. In our weakness He will give strength.
God demands our undivided attention, and our response to Him. He says, “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).
William MacDonald writes: “The voice of God rings out to all the inhabitants of the earth in accents of assurance and supremacy. “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” Every fear is stilled, every anxiety is quieted. His people can relax. He is God. His cause is victorious. He is supreme among the nations, supreme over all the earth.” (Believer’s Bible Commentary p. 622).
Psalm 46:11 says, “The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.” What a wonderful and blessed assurance this is. God is telling you and me He is with us and He is our fortress (or refuge).
Consider, if you will, the might, power, sovereignty, and faithfulness of the God of heaven we worship and serve. There is absolutely none like Him in all the earth. Let us bow down and stand in awe of Him, exalt Him; for He alone is worthy to receive glory, honor, and power.
To be still means we cease trying to fight our own battles in our own strength, and on our own terms. This is completely pointless and useless. Therefore, we must completely surrender and submit to God, allowing Him to have the preeminence in all things.
The apostle Paul says, “Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen” (Ephesians 3:20,21).
While Pharaoh’s army was in hot pursuit, the children of Israel kept on bickering and complaining rather than trusting God for their deliverance. Moses required their attention to deliver good news of what was to come. The Scripture says, “Moses said to the people, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will show to you today.” How else could Moses have got their attention? And the Lord miraculously delivered them from the Egyptians” (Exodus 14:13,14 KJV).
It is essential that Christians take time out from busy and noisy activities each day and engage in heartfelt meditation on God’s word and prayer. Thus, “Be still and know that I am God.” This practice will do us good while strengthening our faith and helping us to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18).
Be still. God says: “Know that I am God.”
Be still. Cease whatever you are doing.
Be still. God requires undivided attention.
Be still. Wait to see what He’ll show you.
Be still. Listen in humility and reverence.
Be still. Experience how awesome God is.
—Geoff Daniels 01/2022
“But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:15,16).
As the world rushes on, Christians must take the time to be set apart for prayer, worship, and service. God will be glorified and the Lord Jesus Christ exalted in our hearts and lives.