Be still and know that I am God

Be Still and Know That I Am God is a traditional congregational hymn based on the biblical refrain from Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.” The text is widely found in many hymnals in straightforward form, often repeated as a short chorus or meditative song that invites worshipers to trust God’s presence and sovereignty in the midst of life’s challenges. The hymn’s simple, repetitive structure makes it accessible for congregational singing, responsive worship, or quiet reflection.

This hymn draws its core message directly from Scripture, where stillness before the Lord signifies trust and submission rather than inactivity. Worshipers are reminded that God is refuge and strength, and that acknowledging His lordship brings peace amid turmoil. While the text itself appears anonymously in many hymnals and is often paired with an anonymous tune titled Be Still and Know, its usage across traditions underscores its grounding in the psalmist’s ancient call to stillness, trust, and confidence in God’s rule.

In many hymnals, additional stanzas expand on themes such as God as healer, God as trustworthy refuge, and the believer’s trust in the Lord’s care, though the most common version remains the brief meditative refrain itself. This focus on quiet obedience and spiritual stillness has made the hymn a favorite during services of prayer, healing, and contemplative worship.

Be Still and Know That I Am God continues to be sung ecumenically, reminding believers that true peace flows not from outward control but from trusting God’s sovereign presence in every season of life.