Are you afraid? Is there something you fear? A diagnosis? An unsettling work environment? A lawsuit? An impending divorce?
This list of things of which we are afraid can go on for days. As immense as the readers of this blog are, the list is that much greater. Any of us on any particular day in any particular situation could be fearful. Fearful of the unknown, of people, of circumstances, or of whatever it is on your mind or heart today.
Today, I offer you a practical way to consider God in light of what you fear. In addition, I trust the verses will cover your soul like a warm blanket.
Allow this Psalm to Encourage You
Psalm 46
Notice what God does and how the sons of Korah respond in this psalm. I have highlighted some key phrases in bold and italics.
1 God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear,
Even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains be carried into the [b]midst of the sea;
3 Though its waters roar and be troubled,
Though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah…
7 The Lord of hosts is with us;
The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,
Who has made desolations in the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two;
He burns the chariot in the 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 refuge. Selah (Psalm 46)
What do we learn? How does this psalm comfort us?
In it we learn God is our refuge and strength. In the midst of problems, we can turn to God and trust in Him. Considering how God is with us and helps in our times of troubles, Ross writes, “a help in troubles he is found to be abundantly.”[1]
Consider how this Psalm helps you focus on God.
He is your refuge and strength.
He is your present help in time of trouble.
He is with you.
What does this mean for you?
You do not have to be afraid.
Observe His works and be encouraged.
Be still and know that He is God.
A Metaphor
There are three categories about a person from which we can gain trust: love, character, and work. For instance, if you were to say that my dad had committed some kind of sin against my mom or a different person, I would immediately assume you were inaccurate. In fact, I would argue extensively that what you had heard must not be true. Why? Because I have watched my dad for years love Jesus Christ, my mom, and others. I have observed His character over the past almost 50 years. Furthermore, I have observed his work ethic over that time as well. His love, character, and work ethic all build my trust.
Possibly you would not have as much trust in another person because you have observed the same three objects. This other person acts in self-interest more than self-sacrificial love. His or her character is questionable. His or her work ethic demonstrates incredible inconsistencies. In that person you will find it much harder to place your trust.
You know this to be true by experience just as I do. Occasionally you are surprised by something, but for the most part, this is a fairly reliable way to know if you can trust someone. Love – Character – Work
In this psalm, we see and are reminded of all three. In the Bible even more so than just this psalm.
God loves you! (cf. Rom 8:31-39)
God character demonstrates it.
God’s work validates it.
Summary
Today, whatever it is you face, whatever it is that is causing you fear or about which you worry, put that in light of God. God, Who sent His Son as a demonstration of His love, is present, trustworthy, and reliable. Today, you do not have to fear.
[1] Allen P. Ross, A Commentary on the Psalms 1–89: Commentary, vol. 2, Kregel Exegetical Library (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Academic, 2011–2013), 87.
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