God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge! Interlude A river brings joy to the city of our God, the sacred home of the Most High. God dwells in that city; it cannot be destroyed. From the very break of day, God will protect it. The nations are in chaos, and their kingdoms crumble! God’s voice thunders, and the earth melts! The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress. Interlude Come, see the glorious works of the Lord: See how he brings destruction upon the world. He causes wars to end throughout the earth. He breaks the bow and snaps the spear; he burns the shields with fire. “Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress. Interlude
Psalms 46:1-11 NLT
This is a psalm (like many others) that is worth memorizing. Every word is important, every line is quotable, and every verse can bring light in the storm. GOD is our refuge and strength. So why do we so often run to other people and other things to help us feel better? Though the mountains crumble, those who are in the Lord can feel no fear—He is everlasting. His city of joy cannot be destroyed, no matter how much hate the world throws at it. His victory is forever. We can look back in history—both in the Bible and our lives—and see the glorious works of the Almighty. Right now, pour out your problems to the Lord. He is our refuge and strength.
…Be still…
Be still. Not frozen with fear but still with His peace. His strength—not our frantic problem-solving—will overcome the issues. Be still. Our fear makes everything worse. There will be a time to move, but first be still. Come first to the Prince of Peace and be still. Only after that…move forward.
What time of the day can you be still before the LORD? If God’s expectation is for you to be still before Him (v 10), what is your expectation of God as you practice being still before Him?
