“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help 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. Come, behold the works of the Lord, how he has brought desolations on the earth. He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the chariots with fire. ‘Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!’ The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.” (v1-3,8-11)
There isn’t much to say about this Psalm of confidence in the Lord – it speaks for itself. It is infamous due to many songs being framed around its lyrics – songs such as “Did You Feel the Mountains Tremble”, “Be Still”, or “Be Exalted, O God”. I’m sure there are more, for this is a well-known Psalm.
As I was doing some research I came across this impactful quote: “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). Can you imagine a large group of people singing this Psalm at the top of their lungs? I’m also confident Satan would be rendered powerless and flee. “The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.” (Pro 28:1) How true is that verse when we unite in song?
Father God, please place a song of joy in my heart, and praises on my lips. My lips will shout for joy, when I sing praises to you; my soul also, which you have redeemed. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come! Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created. (Psa 71:23, Psa 63:3, Rev 4:8b,11)
~ Conqueror in Training