Psalm 46 Meaning Explained

The hymn of unshakeable stillness. Its famous refrain—'The LORD of hosts is with us'—anchors the soul amid cataclysm: earth giving way, mountains falling into the sea. God is both the raging river that brings joy and the voice that melts the earth. The call is to 'be still' (or 'cease striving') and know this militant, present God, who will be exalted to the ends of the earth.

A clear explanation of Psalm 46, its meaning, context, and message for believers today

Psalms Chapter 46 | KJV

1. To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
2. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
3. Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.
4. There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High.
5. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early.
6. The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved: he uttered his voice, the earth melted.
7. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.
8. Come, behold the works of the LORD, what desolations he hath made in the earth.
9. He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire.
10. Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.
11. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.

Historical Context

Psalm 46, attributed to the sons of Korah, is a hymn of trust in God’s protection and presence during turmoil.