They say that "into each life a little rain must fall," but sometimes the downpour is torrential, and relief and comfort seem farther than we can reach. The best news is that the reach of God is readily available. He has no problem pulling us close to Him as we place our simple trust in Him for protection and security and strength in our weariness. He is near when we struggle, and welcomes us to cry out to Him.
In giving us His Word, we are able to hear from Him any time we open our Bible and our hearts to His comfort and care. What He asks is for us to trust. In walking in newness of life, the Psalms provide a place of encouragement to be strengthened and reminded and restored. The American Heritage Dictionary describes trust as "firm reliance on the integrity or ability of a person." God is able. Psalm 46 is what is known as a Psalm of Trust, along with others such as Psalm 23 and Psalm 91.
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." - Psalm 46:1
This psalm, along with the other psalms of trust, rejoices in God's deliverance in the middle of a siege or fearsome battles. Skirmishes on the battlefields of the landscapes of our lives are common, and some days and seasons are exceptionally brutal. But they drive us to the Only One who can ultimately keep us safe and give us comfort and surety of survival as we humbly place our trust in His capable care.
"God won't always shield you from persecution, but He will honor your integrity and give you strength to endure any trial that comes your way. Praise Him for His all-sufficient grace!"- John MacArthur
Together, refuge and strength can be known as "impenetrable defense." God is in control. He does not waver, does not change, will not let go of our hand or heart. He is our sure defense, the Rock that won't move, and His protection gives the highest and best defense, whatever storm or flaming arrows (hatred of the enemy) or onslaught of bewildering circumstances may arrive at our doorstep. God is with us. He will never falter. He will never fail, and He gives us a place to run to - Himself. God alone is our all in all. Any other refuge is incomplete. His grace is all-sufficient.
He is our very present help in trouble, powerful and effective in any difficulty and any dire straits we face.
"He has been tried and proven by His people. He never withdraws from His afflicted. He is their help, truly, effectually, constantly. He is present or near them, close at their side, ready for their comfort. This is emphasized by the word very. He is more present than friend or relative can be; yes, more present than even trouble itself. To all this comfortable truth is added the consideration that His assistance comes at the needed time."- Charles Spurgeon
V.10 of Psalm 46 lets us know to be still and know that He is God. He is Faithful and True and should be praised, even amidst a storm. Simple trust and a willingness to draw upon the strength of the One whose power is limitless will benefit and bless any soul that dares to do so.
A prayer:
Father, I come to you in awe of your might and glory and, in humility, ask You to let me know Your refuge and rest in Your grace and gratefully accept Your help and above all, Your presence. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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