A well known Christian worship song entitled, Be Still and Know That I Am God, based on Psalm 46:10, uses this verse as a meditation. It's a reminder to make a regular habit of resting in God's presence, blocking out other distractions, seeking the peace that only He can provide, and to be more receptive to His voice and leading. It is definitely something that I need to do more often. In other words, if you are a Christian, and already doing this, keep it up. More strength to your arm.
According to the South African Old Testament scholar Willem S. Prinsloo (1944-1997), the central theme of Psalm 46 is unconditional trust in God no matter what should happen, in the face of danger and menace.
His exegesis can be summarised as follows:
In context this Psalm is addressed to nations who think that they can defy an omnipotent God's sovereign purposes for Israel, and all nations. It is both encouragement and warning. God will be exalted. He graciously invites them to make Him their refuge. More broadly, many scholars believe that the year 701 BC was the historical context for this Psalm. God delivered Jerusalem from the hands of the Assyrians during the reign of King Hezekiah (2 Kings 18:13-19:36). It was also used during the postexilic period, when God's people were suffering, to encourage them and restore their faith in God. It is also a reminder that faith in God did not protect His people from danger and catastrophes. Menacing dangers are clearly alluded to. The people of God suffered danger and suffering during their history, especially during their time in exile, when Jerusalem and Zion, the symbols of their security and God's presence, were destroyed.
God is sovereign. Individual human beings and nations are not. It is futile to attempt to defy His purpose and will. He graciously invites all people to submit their lives to Him.
Prinsloo, Willem S. (2019) Psalms [Hoopla] Grand Rapids, Michigan: Eerdmans.
Be Still and Know
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