God Our Fortress

One commentary I read on Psalm 46 was titled “Confident in God’s Protection and Power”.  That phrase reminded me of the Hebrews 11:1 which describes having faith as “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see”. And boy, do we, as the Body of Christ, need these reassuring words today! I love these quotes on this psalm from two giants of the faith who lived hundreds of years apart.

“Martin Luther, when in greatest distress, was wont to call for this psalm, saying, Let us sing the forty-sixth psalm in concert; and then let the devil do his worst.” (John Trapp 1601-1669)
“Comment on this great song of confidence seems almost unnecessary so powerfully has it taken hold on the heart of humanity, and so perfectly does it set forth the experience of trusting souls in all ages and tumultuous times.” (G. Campbell Morgan 1863-1945)
- Chris Adomanis

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ Verses 1-3 are SO clear about God’s willingness and ability to “be there” for His people in times of trouble.  What keeps us from believing and resting in these verses?  What specific things do you fear that you can bring to God, who is a refuge and a very present help?
+ Verses 4-6 were written with the city of Jerusalem in mind; however, read Ezekiel 47:1-12 and Revelation 22:1-5.  Can you see any other application for these verses for believers today?
+ What do you make of the author using two titles for God in verse 7; “the Lord of hosts” and the “God of Jacob”?
+ One commentator described verse 10 as “a word from God Himself”.  What “point” is God trying to make?  How would you describe His “tone”?  Are these words of encouragement, meant for rebuke or are they both?  What does it mean to be “still” before God?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ SOMETHING TO PONDER (PUN INTENDED):  The word “selah” appears 3 times in this psalm: 74 times in the Old Testament as a whole.  It is widely understood as a musical or liturgical pause, which makes sense as this psalm was written to be performed in worship as outlined in the opening lines of the text.  It also marked a time when the reader or hearer were to ponder; to reflect deeply on what was being stated.  I encourage all of us to do the same, maybe even committing some of these verses to memory!

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Almighty God, we praise and exalt You, for You are worthy of all of our worship.  Forgive us for the times we refused to submit to You as Master and Lord.  Thank you for Your Word, which reminds us of Your mighty power and deeds, but also of Your loving kindness towards us; Your people who You love in spite of our constant rebellion.  Let the words of this Psalm wash over us and settle in our soul so we can draw upon the incredible truths found here to live in effective and loving service to You.  Amen.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups) 
+ Who in your sphere of influence needs to hear about the God who is willing and MORE than able to be a very present help in time of need?