“God is our refuge and strength.” (Psalm 46:1)
Life’s storms come in many forms: hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, unexpected problems in marriage or with children, the sudden loss of health or finances. So much we value can be swept away in a moment.
Amid the storms, Scripture points us to the safest place; “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way.”
The writers of this psalm were descendants of a man who generations earlier served god but then rebelled against Him and perished in an earthquake. The outlook they share shows humility and a profound understanding of God’s greatness, compassion, and redeeming love.
Troubles come, but God outlasts them all. Those who rum to the Savior discover that He can’t be shaken. In the arms of His eternal love we find our place of peace.
Daily Questions
- Amid life’s unpredictable storms, how does God give you peace?
- How do you intend to run to Him today?
Daily Thoughts
O God, the One who is greater than the storm, help us to place every fear in Your hands today and to rest in Your unfailing love.
Psalm 46: 1-11
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.”
“There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts. The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.”
“Come and see what the Lord has done, the desolations he has brought on the earth. He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire. He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.'”
“The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.”
Bonus Information
Psalm 46 celebrates God as the only sure source of peace, joy, and courage in a troubled world. The “city of God” likely refers to Jerusalem, seen as where God dwelled with His people in a unique way. The “river whose streams make glad the city of God” seems to symbolize not only literal sustenance but God’s continual presence bringing nourishment, cleansing, and renewal to His people. Joel 3:18 uses similar imagery to describe a fountain flowing out of God’s house. The fountain represents God’s life giving water, indicating His provision and care for His people after the judgment of the nations. The book of Revelation also describes a river, this one flowing from God’s throne. When Jesus has fully defeated the curse of death and evil, God’s healing presence will flow to all “for the healing of the nations” as creation’s joy and flourishing is finally restored.
No Thought Police 