God’s Word of Praise and Thanksgiving
Introduction
Psalm 46: Today’s psalm is a communal hymn that attests to God as a sure refuge in times of trouble. God is sovereign over turmoil in nature and tumult of war and will keep Jerusalem (the city of God) secure.
Scripture Reading
God Is with Us
1God is our shelter and strength,
always ready to help in times of trouble.
2So we will not be afraid, even if the earth is shaken
and mountains fall into the ocean depths;
3even if the seas roar and rage,
and the hills are shaken by the violence.
4There is a river that brings joy to the city of God,
to the sacred house of the Most High.
5God is in that city, and it will never be destroyed;
at early dawn he will come to its aid.
6Nations are terrified, kingdoms are shaken;
God thunders, and the earth dissolves.
7The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our refuge.
8Come and see what the Lord has done.
See what amazing things he has done on earth.
9He stops wars all over the world;
he breaks bows, destroys spears,
and sets shields on fire.
10“Stop fighting,” he says, “and know that I am God,
supreme among the nations,
supreme over the world.”
11The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our refuge.
Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 46:1
God is our shelter and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.
Reflect
How does the psalm writer describe God’s power? Verses 7 and 11 serve as a refrain, affirming that God is with us. Have you experienced a time when you needed to turn to God for protection and strength?
Pray
Lord God, you are my shelter and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. You are always with me and I need not be afraid. You are my refuge. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Psalm 48: A hymn in praise of Zion, the city of God.