Stop, acknowledge, and exalt

    In Bible studies and sermons, we often grow accustomed to hearing certain verses for certain situations. When we're anxious or restless, we quote the first part of Psalm 46:10 - "Be still, and know that I am God." It's a good verse to know and act on, and it seems to be easy to understand.

But we forget to look at the context. Psalm 46 begins with some of my favorite verses which talk about God being our refuge and strength in perilous times. Even when nations are at war around His tabernacle, God will save His place and it will not move. Verses 8-9 then invite us to see how God has desolated the earth by breaking weapons and burning chariots. Then verse 10 comes: "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!" We are not to simply sit down and remember Who God is; we are to praise and exalt our powerful, awesome Heavenly Father.

So next time you're anxious, depressed, or going through a rough time, remember this: the God Who protects His tabernacle and holy city in the middle of raging wars is your refuge and strength, so be still, acknowledge His power, and praise Him for it. Be more concerned about getting to know and praise Him than for your own relief. The whole point of being still is to know and exalt God.

Psalm 46

God is our refuge and strength,

A very present help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear,

Even though the earth be removed,

And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;

Though its waters roar and be troubled,

Though the mountains shake with its swelling.

Selah.

There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God,

The holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High.

God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved.

God shall help her, just at the break of dawn.

The nations raged, the kingdoms were moved; 

He uttered His voice, the earth melted.

The LORD of hosts is with us;

The God of Jacob s our refuge.

Selah.

Come, behold the works of the LORD, Who has made desolations in the earth.

He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;

He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two;

He burns the chariot in the fire.

Be still, and know that I am God;

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth!

The LORD of hosts is with us;

The God of Jacob is our refuge.

Selah.