4 Reminders of Who God Is: Psalm 46Smakprov

God Is Our Refuge In Times Of Trouble

In times of trouble, where do you run to? Do you run to the Presence of God or the temporary comforts of this world?

Psalm 46:4-7 paints a beautiful picture of God's Presence, "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 the city; it shall not be moved; God will help it when the morning dawns. The nations are in an uproar, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts. The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge." Despite the storms of life that may be swirling around you, just one word from God can bring peace that passes all understanding.

As the fundamental idea that we serve a God who is present in every moment of our lives begins to take deep root in our hearts, the Holy Spirit expands our capacity to trust that "God is our refuge in times of trouble." Connecting these two ideas is critical, because if you and I are not convinced that God is present in our most important moments, we are unlikely to run to Him in times of trouble.

The Psalms repeatedly direct our eyes to the idea that God can be trusted in good times and bad. Psalm 9:9 says, "The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble." And Psalm 91:1-2 echoes a similar message, "You who live in the shelter of the Most High, who abide in the shadow of the Almighty, will say to the Lord, "My refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust."" Have you been mistreated? Do you feel overlooked? Unworthy? Run to the Presence of Jesus, trusting in His goodness and faithfulness regardless of how you feel in the moment or the current state of your circumstances.

Let your time alone with Jesus become your place of refuge. Allow the daily practice of spending extended time alone with Jesus to be your safe place to process the cares of the world, bringing healing and strength to your soul. If your world is falling apart, run into the loving arms of Jesus.