God Is Our Refuge And Strength

Psalm 46:1  "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."   O what a familiar verse!  I have read this verse many times, and have read it without truly understanding the words and message.  What is a refuge?  According to the dictionary, a refuge is a place of shelter, protection, and safety.  The origin of the word describes the act of turning or fleeing from something.  Many times in our language we see or hear the word refuge along with the word storm, and it indicates a safe place to flee from the storm. The word strength refers to the ability to withstand stress and great pressure. And to be ever-present, means that God is always ready.  To combine these thoughts, we know that God is always ready to help us to withstand the stresses and pressures of life, and to offer us the shelter and protection we need to survive the storms. Several verses later in Psalm 46:10 it says to "Be still and know that I am God."   Dear Friend, do you have trouble today?  The bible has promised us that God is our ever-present help in time of need and trouble.  He is always ready to help us.  He has promised us that He is our refuge and shelter from the storms of life.  He has also instructed us to be still and know that He alone is our God.  Take a few moments today to thank God for his continuous love, and ever-present help in our lives.  He alone is worthy, and He alone deserves our praise and thanksgiving.   Dave Henry