What is the whole psalm about?
1God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.
2Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
3Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah
The psalm opens with the earth giving way, mountains falling into the sea and waters roaring. Even then, the writer says, “we will not fear”. It is a song of confidence in God when everything shakes. Its heading credits it to the sons of Korah, a family of musicians who served at the temple.
What comes right before “Be still”?
8Come, behold the works of the LORD, Who has made desolations in the earth.
9He 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.
10Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!
11The LORD of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah
God has ended wars and broken the bow and the spear. Then the voice changes and God Himself speaks. The Hebrew word behind “be still” can mean to stop, to let go or to loosen your grip, and some translations put it as “cease striving”. Readers differ on whom God is addressing: the warring nations, His own frightened people, or both.
So can you use it for quiet prayer?
Yes, with its meaning kept whole. Being quiet before God is a good way to know that He is God. Keep the larger picture in view, though. The stillness rests on God's power over every trouble. It does not depend on how calm you can make yourself feel.
For example: “God, the world feels loud and out of control. I stop. I let go of what I cannot hold. You are God, and You are with us. Amen.” This is a prepared example.
For a method you can use with any verse, read how to read a Bible verse in context. For the whole book, see our guide to Psalms.