Psalm 46 (NRSV)
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Verse 1God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Verse 2Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea;
Verse 3though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult. Selah
Verse 4There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High.
Verse 5God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved; God will help it when the morning dawns.
Verse 6The nations are in an uproar, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts.
Verse 7The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah
Verse 8Come, behold the works of the Lord; see what desolations he has brought on the earth.
Verse 9He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow, and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire.
Verse 10"Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth."
Verse 11The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah
Devotion
The world in which we live is full of troubles, uncertainties, challenges, woes, misery, poverty, marginalization, racism, hopelessness, disease and injustice. Those who are wealthy continue to be wealthy whilst those who are poor continue to be poor.
The greatest assurance, however, to every Christian, is God’s nearness to us in the midst of these uncertainties. No matter what happens, we can take refuge in God, who is ever ready to help us out of every situation. God’s outstretched hands are ever ready to receive us. We do not fear, as a result. Instead of being afraid, we would rather depend on God’s love and be still, hoping to experience his majesty.
Prayer
Dear Father, thank you for being ever ready to come to my aid no matter the circumstances. I take delight in the fact that I can run to you in times of trouble and that you will never reject me. Amen.