Psalm 46
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. Psalm 46 (NIV)
This Psalm is well known for being the inspiration for the hymn, “A Mighty Fortress is Our God.” Because of the death sentence contained in the Edict of Worms, Martin Luther took refuge in Wartburg Castle, where he translated the Bible into German, among other writings. After almost a year, things cooled down for him enough to return to Wittenberg and continue his efforts there. The hymn was written between 1527 and 1529 according to historians, well after taking refuge in Wartburg.
Where do you go for refuge or safety? Growing up, if I was hurt, I went to my mom because she could make the hurt go away. If I was really scared, I went to my dad, because he seemed big enough to protect me from anything. Now, I’m supposed to be self-reliant, but I still get hurt and scared. I’m very lucky to have a spouse that is a wonderful refuge, but there are others in my life who seem to understand me when I’m stressed and can calm me down. Most of all, I am comforted knowing that God, the Lord Almighty is with me, and He is my fortress, so I will not fear or worry. No matter what the world situation brings, God is in charge. All I have to do is be still and know that He is God. What a comforting thought!
Questions for Reflection:
- What in your life is disconcerting you so much you want to take refuge?
- Who is your refuge? To whom do you go with your problems?
- Who thinks of you as a refuge and a safe place to be?
Prayer:
Dear Lord, you have promised to be with us, and protect us like a fortress. We don’t always realize when we need you, or seek you out when we’re fearful. Help us trust you, and take comfort in your promises that you are in control when the world is in turmoil. Thank you for your love, and help us be a refuge for anyone who needs us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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