Be Still

The Refuge and Strength of Our God in Times of Adversity

Introduction:

Life often presents us with challenges that seem overwhelming—personal struggles, political unrest, societal shifts, or natural disasters. In times like these, where can we turn for assurance and strength? Psalm 46 provides a powerful reminder that God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. As Christians, we can take comfort in knowing that God reigns sovereign over all circumstances, and His presence is our unshakable refuge.

The Confidence of God’s Sovereignty (Psalm 46:1-3)

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling." (Psalm 46:1-3)

In the opening verses of Psalm 46, we find an assertion of confidence in God amidst adversity. The psalmist does not deny that life can bring tumultuous times, but rather he points to God’s steadfast power and presence as the answer to fear. The vivid imagery of the earth giving way, mountains being thrown into the sea, and roaring waters portrays a scene of utter chaos, yet the psalmist boldly declares that we need not fear. Why? Because our refuge and strength are found in God.

This is not a promise of an easy life free from trials, but an assurance that God’s sovereignty remains unchanged. When we face adversities—whether personal, communal, or even global—we are not called to a spirit of fear. Instead, we are called to trust in the Lord who is our refuge. His strength, not our own, will carry us through.

God’s Unshakable Presence (Psalm 46:4-7)

"There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns. The nations rage, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress." (Psalm 46:4-7)

In verses 4-7, the psalmist contrasts the raging of the nations with the peace and stability found in the city of God. This imagery points us to the church, the people of God, as a source of refuge and joy. Just as God is in the midst of His city, He is present with His people. He is our unshakable foundation, and though the world may rage, God’s presence ensures that we will not be moved.

Here we see the supremacy of God over all earthly powers. The nations may rage, kingdoms may totter, and the earth itself may tremble, but when God speaks, everything must bow to His will. This is the God we serve—the One who is in total control. In times of uncertainty, we are to take refuge in His presence, trusting that He is our fortress and stronghold.

God’s Victory and Power (Psalm 46:8-10)

"Come, behold the works of the LORD, how he has brought desolations on the earth. He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the chariots with fire. ‘Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!’" (Psalm 46:8-10)

In verses 8-10, the psalmist calls us to behold the works of the Lord and consider His victories. God has shown His power throughout history by bringing desolations to those who oppose His will and bringing peace to those who trust in Him. The image of God breaking the weapons of war emphasizes His ultimate victory over all forces of evil.

Then, God speaks: "Be still, and know that I am God." This is not simply a command to stop moving; it is a call to cease striving and acknowledge that God is sovereign. In times of adversity, when we are tempted to panic or take matters into our own hands, we are reminded to "be still"—to trust in God’s power, to rest in His sovereignty, and to surrender our anxious hearts to Him.

The phrase “I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth” is a declaration that regardless of the chaos around us, God’s glory will ultimately prevail. Our calling is to trust in His sovereign will, to be still, and to know that He is God.

Our Secure Refuge (Psalm 46:11)

"The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress." (Psalm 46:11)

The psalmist concludes with a powerful refrain that mirrors the opening verses. The LORD of hosts—the commander of heaven’s armies—is with us. He is the God of Jacob, our refuge and fortress. The repetition of this truth is meant to anchor our hearts in the unshakable assurance that God is with us in every circumstance. No matter how dire the situation, God’s presence is our ultimate security.

This final verse offers great comfort to the believer. When everything else in life may be uncertain, we can take refuge in the truth that God is our fortress, and He will never leave nor forsake His people.

Conclusion: Trusting in God’s Sovereignty

Psalm 46 is a psalm of confidence in God in the face of adversity. It reminds us that, though we will face trials, we serve a sovereign God who is in control of all things. Our refuge is not in our own strength, nor in our ability to solve problems, but in the unshakable power of God. When the world seems to be falling apart, we are called to “be still” and trust that God is in control.

This psalm calls us to place our trust in the God who is our refuge, strength, and fortress. He is present with us in times of trouble, and His power and victory are certain. We are to take comfort in knowing that, no matter what happens, God’s will will be done, and His glory will be exalted in all the earth.

As we face adversity, let us remember that we serve a God who is in total control, and He is our refuge and strength.

Scripture References:

• Psalm 46:1-11

• John 7:38-39

• Matthew 11:28-30