Suggested Bible Reading: 2 Kings 19; Psalm 46, 80, 135
Devotional Thought:
Title: “The Help of Our God.”
Even to those who are not familiar with all the details of it, this little Psalm has been precious to many believers because of the word of comfort and assurance at its beginning and the tender exhortation at its ending. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble,” and “Be still, and know that I am God.” It is said of Luther that in his darkest hours he used to say, “Come, let us sing the 46th Psalm.” His famous hymn, “A mighty fortress is our God,” was based upon this Psalm. Therefore”, says the Psalmist, in view of this ever-available help of God, “therefore will not we fear.” Even the most violent and most disastrous events ought not to make the trusting saint afraid. Though the earth be removed or changed and its great mountain pillars be lost in the oceans, it can still be said of our great God, “Thou remainest … thou art the same.” (Heb. 1:11-12) Whether the awful chaos imagined by the Psalmist is literal, or symbolic of great political upheavals and the collapse of all that seems to be stable on earth, is not relevant. However, it seems all too personal right now as it relates to our political issues. It may indeed include the overthrow of dynasties, the fall of governments and the ruin of nations, but security in the stronghold of God, those within it have no cause for fear though the earth be overturned by a mighty convulsion of nature and the mountains disappear in the sea. God is in the midst. This is His rightful place, and while He is preeminent in the midst of His saints, their defense is sure… they shall not be moved. For the second time in the Psalm the word “help” appears. How needy are the people of God, but He is in the midst to help, and that right early or “at the dawn of every morning.” With a repetition of the refrain of verse 7 the Psalm closes. Jehovah of Hosts, the God of Jacob, remains the solace and shelter of His people. His presence assures for His saints in every age both safety and security. He is our high tower, our fortress, and our sure refuge. Selah.
Personal Prayer Requests:
- Lord, please help me to remember to run to you in time of trouble. You are a very present help!
- Lord, thank you for your security and safety that you promise in the middle of your will. Thank you for the comfort that it brings.
- Lord, please help me to rehearse your marvelous works often with my family and with you.