Dear Friends,
During June and July we are going to memorize Psalm 46! This is an exceedingly comforting song of praise. Sons of Korah were worship leaders who wrote a total of 11 psalms.
Martin Luther was inspired by Psalm 46 to write his hymn: “A Mighty Fortress is Our God!” Many scholars believe the psalm may have been written to celebrate the dramatic deliverance of Jerusalem recorded in 2 Kings 18-20.
Psalm 46:1 NIV
God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
The titles for God in this psalm are so very reassuring. Each one highlights the power and protection our God offers to all who trust in Him.
GOD IS OUR REFUGE
Refuge (in various forms) is found 37 times in the Psalms. It is related to the verb “to trust.”
- In Psalm 18:2… a refuge is hiding in a rocky shelter.
- In Psalm 18:30… a refuge is a shield; small but moves quickly by an agile soldier to protect himself.
- In Psalm 57:1… a refuge is the wings of a mother bird protecting her young.
- In Psalm 59:16… a refuge is a fortress, an easily defensible stronghold.
- In Psalm 61:3… a refuge is a high strong tower.
In each of these pictures we are comforted by God’s sure capability and desire to defend His own people. Re-read the list and thank Him for His protection!
Be encouraged,
Pastor Rick