Be Still
A reflection on Psalm 46
Psalm 46 should bring encouragement to all of us living through chaotic times, when wars and rumors of war, veiled hints of peace, quiet lulls in conflict followed by renewed hostilities, and the ever-present rattling of sabers fill our news feeds as nations and world leaders exchange blows. The writer encourages us not to become distracted or despair when the world is restless and circumstances seem to be constantly roiling out of control. He states clearly in the opening verses both our spiritual reality and the faithful response of the believer:
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear…”
And as if the present world and its many troubles were not enough to cause concern, the psalmist places this assurance alongside the very worst possible scenario humanity might face:
“Though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.”
His use of Hebrew poetry and hyperbole is intentional. If everything in the world were to suddenly collapse into oblivion, God would remain our refuge. In biblical literature, mountains represent security, strength, and stability, while the sea often represents chaos and uncontrollable forces. The psalmist imagines the collapse of everything that appears permanent and secure, yet insists that even then, “we will not fear.”
His comparison aligns well with what the Apostle Paul would write centuries later:
“For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:17–18).
What then? Are we to ignore life’s present troubles, physical realities, the perpetual news cycle, the geopolitical actions of elected officials and authoritarian regimes, the perceived injustices and threats? I think not. Rather, like the example set by the psalmist, we are to look elsewhere for our peace and spiritual security. We will not find it in this world but in “the holy habitation of the Most High,” which is described as “a river whose streams make glad the city of God.” Unlike the roaring sea, this river brings life, and its streams flow peacefully from the presence of God. He points us to the unseen reality, a secret fortress for all who have put their faith in the God of Jacob, a place where we are invited to dwell with God, under the protection of the One who is never moved by the earthly rage of nations. A stable rock. A mighty God. In Him and only Him can we find peace and relief from our fears and anxieties.
Even the desolations of the earth remain under the sovereign rule of God. Men may fight the battles, but the Lord rules the nations. In His time, we can trust Him to bring wars to an end, “to the end of the earth,” as He “breaks the bow and shatters the spear.” He is sovereign King over all creation. So what cause is there for fear? What need for worry or distress? Remember that the “Lord of hosts is with us,” in good times and bad times, and at all times, a stable fortress that cannot be moved. Turn your gaze heavenward and by faith to the hidden realities; and embrace the psalm’s climactic call, “be still, and know that I am God.”
In the context of Psalm 46, to be still means to hold fast in faith to the One who remains “our very present help in trouble,” regardless of any earthly circumstance or trial. His fortress is unshakable, as are His promises for all who trust in Him and believe in the completed work of Jesus Christ.
The Gospel of Mark recalls the night when a mighty storm arose on the Sea of Galilee, striking fear into the disciples' hearts as Jesus slept. The One whose blood would be shed for our sins arose and rebuked the storm with these simple words: “Peace! Be still!” (Mark 4:39). Immediately, the wind ceased, and Mark tells us “there was a great calm.”
Next time you find yourself overwhelmed by anxiety or fear, read Psalm 46. Remember the words of Jesus and His reminder to the disciples to have faith despite the raging storm surrounding them. Ask Him to rebuke the storm and to steady your faith. Just as He was with His disciples in the boat on that frightful night at sea, He is with us.
Be still, and know that He is God.