“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).
This verse is rich in positive statements about the person and power of the God of this universe for every soul. Notice three things that should give comfort to the heart of every believer and inspire courage and confidence.
1. THE PROTECTION OF GOD IS PROMISED
“God is our refuge.” The place of safety and security is found in the loving care of God, Who has promised to be with His own (Isaiah 43:2), to go before His own (Isaiah 45:2) to be beneath His own (Deuteronomy 33:27), to uphold His own (Isaiah 41:10), and to be the refuge for His own (Psalm 91:2).
He upheld Joseph in Pharaoh’s palace, protected Daniel in the den of lions and the Hebrew children in the fiery furnace, and He supported Paul in trials, troubles, and perils of life during his fruitful ministry. He has been the refuge for His servants in all ages. Accept His promise of protection. He is our refuge!
2. THE POWER OF GOD IS PLEDGED
“God is our…strength.” God has all power in heaven and earth, and He offers His power to His people (Acts 1:8; Philippians 4:13).
God gave Noah power to build the ark of safety and Joseph power to overcome evil. He gave Moses power to deliver the children of Israel from Egyptian bondage, David power to overcome Goliath, and Elijah the power of fire to consume the offering. He gave Paul power to preach the Gospel in the regions beyond, and He will continue to give His people power to overcome evil and to accomplish every task before them for His glory. The power of the Lord is unlimited, and He will be the strength of His people!
3. THE PRESENCE OF GOD IS PROCLAIMED
“A very present help in trouble.” God is everywhere and He sees all things (Psalm 139:7-10; Proverbs 15:3). He knows all things (Psalm 139:1-6; 147:4-5). The Lord will be with His people in all places and under all circumstances. He will never leave His own (Hebrews 13:5). He will never fail His own.
God was with Peter and John and delivered them from prison. He was with Paul and delivered him from shipwreck in the sea. He was with John Bunyan and blessed him to begin a movement for freedom. He was with David Livingstone in Africa, Adoniram Judson in Burma, Hudson Taylor in China, and He will always be with the humblest of His servants and bless them. He has reminded us over and over again, “I will be with thee.” Hallelujah!
“Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name” (Psalm 103:1).