A Very Present Help

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear..."
– Psalm 46:1-2

We find a new group in the title of this Psalm. It is written as a “Song for Alamoth.” It is uncertain the meaning of the word. The Septuagint defines this word as meaning “hidden things.” However, the Hebrew word has to do with “young maidens.” The thought behind this is that the song was composed to be sung by women in a high range. This particular Psalm is one of a trilogy of Psalms (i.e., 46,47,48). They are Psalms or songs of triumph, and they remind us that God provides stability in unstable environments of nature and nations. Many writers remind us that this Psalm was what caused Martin Luther to write the hymn, “A Mighty Fortress is Our God.” This Psalm has been one that has comforted many people during times of crisis.

Throughout the history of this nation, Israel has experienced war and enemies coming against them constantly. They have had real issues. In the world we live in today, it is easy for us to get distracted by the problems that we see. And although we may not have experienced an enemy of our nation standing at our front door, we do experience the spiritual battles taking place as Christians. We experience the struggles within—the fight for our hearts and minds. Yet we must trust what God’s Word tells us. There will be times when nature feels unstable, but God is steady and in control…ALWAYS!

Daily, we are inundated with so much information that occupies us. Through our thoughts, we begin to become anxious and start to worry. This is where Satan often attacks us to believe things that are not true. When that begins to happen, we must make every effort to remember that the Lord our God is always present in a time of need. He is with us in every situation, and nothing surprises Him. God is sufficient in all circumstances. What peace that should bring to our hearts to trust the faithfulness of God. Are you trusting in His faithfulness today?