Psalm 46; a study

“Be still, and know that I am God”

• Psalm 46v10a

We’re taking a break today to study the first part of the 46th Psalm.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

• V1

This is the premise of the entire psalm. The words “very present” have a footnote that say it can also mean “well proved”. God has proved Himself to be our protection and endurance whenever we are 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.”

• V2-3

Mountains represent a place where heaven meets earth; where man has personal encounters with Almighty God. Mountains represent places where God’s voice is clear and His power is evident.

The sea, on the other hand, represents chaos, fallen humanity, and separation from God.

A mountain being thrown into the sea is a picture of a Christian feeling like the noise is drowning out his connection with God. This is something every Christian has struggled with at one time or another. When we don’t know where to go, often the first thing we say is “It’s hard to hear God’s voice.”

But the psalm gives us an instruction when we feel like our sacred space with God is being overrun with chaos.

“There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High.”

• V4

The river in this case represents the Holy Spirit, and the streams are praying and worshiping in tongues.

We know this because the holy habitation of God is His people and the praises of His people.

“God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns.”

• V5

Sometimes the mornings are the hardest part of the day. But God promises to be your refuge and strength; to be your inner strength. You have only to worship Him in Spirit and in truth.