John Calvin Commentary Psalms 46:10

"Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." — Psalms 46:10 (ASV)

Be still, and know that I am God. The Psalmist now seems to turn his discourse to the enemies of God’s people, who indulge their malicious desire for mischief and revenge against them; for in injuring the saints, they do not realize that they are waging war against God.

Imagining they are dealing only with men, they presumptuously attack them. Therefore, the prophet here rebukes their insolence; and to give his words greater weight, he introduces God Himself speaking to them.

First, he commands them to be still, so that they may know that He is God; for we see that when people act rashly, they go beyond all limits. Accordingly, the prophet rightly requires the enemies of the Church to be still and keep silent, so that when their anger subsides, they may realize they are fighting against God.

We find a somewhat similar sentiment in Psalm 4:4: Stand in awe, and sin not; commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still.

In short, the Psalmist urges the world to subdue and restrain their turbulent passions and to give the God of Israel the glory He deserves. He warns them that if they continue to act like madmen, His power is not confined to the narrow limits of Judea. It will not be difficult for Him to extend His arm far to the Gentiles and heathen nations, so that He may glorify Himself in every land.

In conclusion, he repeats what he has already said: God has more than enough weapons and strength to preserve and defend His Church, which He has adopted.