The verse has always, in my mind, been focused on me. I realize I forget to read my own notes.

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; 
I will be exalted among the nations, 
I will be exalted in the earth.”  (Ps. 46:10, NIV)

I have heard “cease striving” as well. The Common English Bible is simple: “THAT’S ENOUGH!”

Then, I read my note from my studying:

The term raphah means “to release” or “let go” (37:8; Job 27:6). God commands the forces of chaos (Ps 46:2–3) and the nations (v. 6) to stop their raging and recognize Him as God (2:10–12). (Taken from the Faith Life Study Bible)

That makes the Common English Bible rendition much more compelling. God isn’t talking to us. He is speaking to the chaos around us.

The chaos causing upheaval in creation: earthquakes, hurricanes, other upheaval all around us (vv. 2-3)

The nations raging against God (v. 6).

There will be a time when God will stand up, face that chaos once and for all, and declare: That’s enough!

Yes, I need to be still. Yes, I need to “release” or “let go.” But I also need the reminder that in the midst of chaos all around, there is the King on his throne. When I am enraged at the violence or deception or corruption around me, and I’m asking God where he is in all this, I am to be reminded that there is a day he will stand up and face that chaos and say: enough.

My eyes are to be on him, not the chaos.