Psalm 46 (NRSV)
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Verse 1God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Verse 2Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea;
Verse 3though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult. Selah
Verse 4There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High.
Verse 5God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved; God will help it when the morning dawns.
Verse 6The nations are in an uproar, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts.
Verse 7The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah
Verse 8Come, behold the works of the Lord; see what desolations he has brought on the earth.
Verse 9He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow, and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire.
Verse 10"Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth."
Verse 11The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah
Devotion
Do we live in troubled times? Is everything you thought to be fixed and unchangeable suddenly shifting and changing? Do you seem to be treading water in a roaring sea? Has God abandoned you? Must you chase after God?
Think for a moment of butterflies. As much as you chase them with your net, they elude you, gracefully flittering off in unexpected ways. You can pause from your efforts; they will alight right next to you!
God is present, with you. In the midst of uproar, God is our refuge. It is God who brings peace. Only God can bring true peace, even in the midst of the worst we humans can do.
God is present with you right now. Can you sense God's presence? There is no need to flail about, as with a butterfly net! Be still. And know. Know that God is with you. Know that God is for you. Here is refuge, even in most difficult of times.
Prayer
Lord God, Heavenly Father, thank you for your faithful presence. Help me to remember and know that, even when all evidence appears to the contrary, you are with me. Help me to live into your presence. Amen.