God’s Grace for TodaySample

Thrown in the Sea

I live near Lake Michigan, one of the largest bodies of fresh water in the world. However, the beauty of the water can mask its might. In 2020, its immense power was on full display as waves from record-high water levels ripped homes off their foundations and cast them into the lake. Owners who never imagined their property could be in danger found that their homes were completely destroyed.

The sobering destructive power of nature brings to mind a similar picture in Scripture in which the psalmist wrote about unsettling feelings of fear and anxiety illustrated as earthquakes coming, mountains crumbling and falling, and water roaring (Psalm 46:1-3). There are many times when life’s very foundations feel like they’re being shaken: a difficult health diagnosis for a loved one, the tragic death of a friend, a season of mental illness.

Facing similar feelings of fear and instability, the psalmist wrote that if everything he depended on was gone, God would still be his strong refuge and fortress (vv. 1, 7, 11). The basis for his confidence is repeated twice: “The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us.” And that assurance gave him peace in the midst of uncertain times.

Whatever suffering you’re experiencing, Psalm 46 reminds us of the security and stability that God provides to His people in troubled times. Lisa M. Samra

How have you experienced God as a refuge during difficult experiences? How did His strength sustain you?

Almighty God, thank You that You’re a strong fortress that can’t be shaken.

If you’re facing fear and anxiety, read When Fear Seems Overwhelming for some biblical encouragement: discoveryseries.org/product/when-fear-seems-overwhelming/