Psalm 46

1 God is our refuge and strength,

    a very present help in trouble.

2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,

    though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,

3 though its waters roar and foam,

    though the mountains tremble at its swelling.  Selah

4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,

    the holy habitation of the Most High.

5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved;

    God will help her when morning dawns.

6 The nations rage, the kingdoms totter;

    he utters his voice, the earth melts.

7 The Lord of hosts is with us;

    the God of Jacob is our fortress.  Selah

8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,

    how he has brought desolations on the earth.

9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;

    he breaks the bow and shatters the spear;

    he burns the chariots with fire.

10 "Be still, and know that I am God.

    I will be exalted among the nations,

    I will be exalted in the earth!"

11 The Lord of hosts is with us;

    the God of Jacob is our fortress.  Selah

 

This week's devotion focuses on God's actions in Psalm 46, the profound truths that remind us of God's unwavering presence, power, authority, and protection during life's turmoil.  It begins and ends with the same idea: God is always with us, no matter what.

Verse 1 proclaims, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble." In moments of turmoil, we find comfort in knowing God is our stronghold and a source of unyielding support.  What has God done in the past as your stronghold and support?  What is God doing in your life today?  Just as God has been your stronghold and support in the past, trust that He continues to be your ever-present help today.

Verses 2 and 3 paint a vivid, physical picture of God's actions.  The earth shakes, mountains crumble, and waters roar, but we do not need to fear because we know God is present and active.  We have nothing to fear because his presence endures no matter what.  God's stability anchors us when everything else seems uncertain.

Verse 4 introduces the concept of a river to symbolize God's provision and sustenance in our lives, even amid turmoil.  Just as a river provides life-giving water, God's presence nourishes and satisfies our needs.

Verse 5 declares that God is within the city, ensuring it stands firm.  Just as God is in the city, God is in our lives.  God is our constant foundation, unshaken by worldly circumstances.

Verse 6 acknowledges that nations may rage, and God's voice brings desolation.  God is in charge.  God wields all authority; He holds power over all things.

Verse 7 reinforces God's presence in our lives; the Lord of hosts is our refuge and fortress against adversaries.  God's mighty protection is our shelter.

Verses 8 and 9 encourage us to become witnesses to God's daily actions.  We are to witness how His power brings desolation upon the earth, makes wars cease, and brings peace.  Observing His handiwork, we can see His power, presence, and sovereignty in action.

Verse 10 is a gentle yet commanding reminder: "Be still and know that I am God." We are to stop and cease whatever we are doing to witness God's actions all around us.  We are to reflect on what He has done and witness what God is currently doing in our lives.

Verse 11 repeats for the third time that God, the Lord of hosts, is with us.  This conclusion underscores the promise of God's abiding presence, offering assurance that we are never alone.

As you navigate life's journey, embrace the truths woven throughout Psalm 46.  Let these verses remind us that God's presence is an unshakable foundation, bringing peace and stability to our lives.  Just as He has been faithful in the past, He remains faithful today and always.

As we navigate the waters of change in our lives, remember that God is the constant presence in an ever-changing world. His faithfulness remains unshaken, His promises unbroken. When challenges arise, when the path ahead seems unclear, find comfort in the fact that God is with you, and take the time to stop and reflect upon what God has done and is doing in your life.