Instead of interpreting “be still” as a gentle suggestion, the meaning in this psalm lends itself more to: “cease striving” or “stop,” and more specifically, in this context, “stop fighting,” which is directed toward the enemies of the people of God. The people of God should interpret the command for themselves to read more like: ‘snap out of it,’ ‘wake up,’ ‘stop fearing’—acknowledge who your God is—be in awe! However, it is good to note that there’s nothing wrong with the words in the translation “be still;” those words are not incorrect, it is simply helpful to note the context of the phrase. Verse 10 has something to say to both the enemies of God and the people of God, but the psalm is written to the people of God. Verse 1 starts, “God is our refuge and strength” (emphasis added). The Psalms are for God’s people.
In this article, we’ll look at the context of Psalm 46:10 and its various views; let’s start by reading Psalm 46 in its entirety.
