There is more to a verse than just its opening line.  Surrounding passages of Scripture give us a broader view of what the verse is addressing. Take the first part of Psalm 46:10, for example: “Be still and know that I am God.” 

The surrounding context reads: “The nations are in chaos, and their kingdoms crumble! God’s voice thunders, and the earth melts! The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress. Come, see the glorious works of the Lord” (vs 6-8).

“Be still and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world” (v 10).

If we don’t allow our concerns about what is happening in the world to dominate our thoughts, we will see what the Lord wants us to see. We will see the armies of Heaven at work on Earth. We will see the glorious works of God demonstrated in the turmoil of nations. We will become part of something greater that the Lord is doing in the world.

This stillness is not inactivity. It is an active stillness—a turning to see that God is at work in something larger and more profound, impacting a broader audience.