Our Refuge
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; – Psalms 46:1-2
This scripture is such a great comfort in the world we live in today. With all the turmoil, uncertainty, and instability we see around us—whether it’s conflicts across the globe, economic and political uncertainty, or personal challenges—this passage reminds us of something crucial to our peace of mind: God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
In today’s world, it’s easy to let fear settle in. Every day, news reports bombard us with stories of wars, natural disasters, or looming crises, and the temptation is to think, “You just never know what’s going to happen next.” In the face of such uncertainty, fear can creep into our hearts, causing anxiety about our safety, our future, and even the fate of our loved ones. But the Psalm today speaks directly to this fear and gives us hope.
The chapter starts out declaring, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” It’s more than just words of comfort—it’s a promise. God Himself becomes our shelter from the storms of life. No matter what happens around us, we have an unshakable refuge in Him. The imagery in the psalm is powerful: even if the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, we do not have to be afraid (Psalm 46:2-3).
One of the most beautiful truths we read here is that God is ever-present. He is not far off, waiting for us to figure things out on our own or fix our problems before He steps in. Instead, He is always with us, right in the middle of whatever difficulty we are facing. Whether it’s personal trials or larger global uncertainties, God is not absent or indifferent. His help is immediate and real.
This promise is one we can hold onto every day, no matter what may happen in the world around us. Whether we are dealing with personal struggles—like health challenges, financial difficulties, or relationship issues—or we are simply overwhelmed by the chaos and instability in the world, we can turn to God as our refuge.
The psalmist goes on to say in verse 10, “Be still, and know that I am God.” In a world full of constant noise, movement, and uncertainty, God calls us to a place of stillness and trust. It’s not an invitation to escape or ignore the difficulties around us but rather to shift our focus from the chaos to the One who is in control. When we center our hearts on the unchanging nature of God, fear loses its grip.
Because of this truth, we don’t have to live in fear. We don’t have to be afraid to go out into the world, face our challenges, or deal with the unknowns that come our way. We can hold on to this assurance that God’s presence and protection surround us like a fortress. No matter how strong the storm, God is stronger.
The message of this Psalm is clear: even in the face of overwhelming trouble, God is our refuge and strength. He is our fortress when everything around us feels unstable, and He is our ever-present help in every crisis. We can rest in the fact that nothing surprises God, and nothing is beyond His control.
In today’s uncertain world, let this psalm be a reminder: you do not have to be afraid. You do not have to live in constant anxiety about what might happen next. You can live with confidence, knowing that God is with you. Whether the trouble you face is global or personal, whether the storm is loud or quiet, God is always present, always willing to help, and always strong enough to carry you through.
Living free from fear in your life involves taking intentional steps to live in the peace and confidence that God offers, no matter what storms or challenges you face. Here are a few ways you can put this into practice:
1. Turn to God as Your Refuge in Daily Challenges
Prayer as Your First Response: When troubles arise—whether big or small—make it a habit to pray immediately. Before trying to fix things on your own or becoming overwhelmed, pause and invite God into the situation. Acknowledge that He is your refuge and strength.
Cast Your Anxieties on Him: Practice giving your worries and fears to God. When you feel anxious about something, whether it’s a personal struggle, a global crisis, or uncertainty about the future, bring those concerns to Him in prayer. Trust that He is present and at work, even when you don’t see an immediate solution.
2. Be Still and Know That He Is God
Take Time to Be Still: In a busy, chaotic world, set aside time each day to be still before God. This could be through meditation on scripture, quiet reflection, or simply sitting in silence, acknowledging God’s presence and faithfulness with thanksgiving. Remind yourself that He is over all things, and this stillness allows you to shift your focus on to His power rather than the problems around you.
Stop Trying to Control Everything: It’s easy to feel like you have to handle every crisis or fix every problem. Let God’s Word remind you to rest in the knowledge that God has this, even when things feel out of control. Learn to release situations to Him rather than carrying them all on your shoulders.
3. Live Without Fear by Trusting God’s Protection
Face Life Confidently: Because God is your refuge, you don’t have to live in constant fear. Step into situations—whether at work, in relationships, or in decisions—knowing that you have God’s protection and guidance. When uncertainty strikes, remind yourself of His promises and declare, “God is my refuge and strength. I will not fear.”
Confront Fears with Faith: When you feel fear rising up, especially in uncertain or difficult circumstances, combat it with faith in God’s promises. Memorize key verses and speak them as a shield over your life when you’re tempted to give in to fear.
4. Trust God in Uncertain Situations
Surrender Control: In order to surrender your need to control outcomes, whether it’s a job uncertainty, financial challenges, or global instability, you must recognize that God is taking care of you in every situation. Practice daily surrender, giving these situations over to God and trusting Him to work in His timing.
Trust God in Delays or Setbacks: When things don’t go as planned, remember that God’s presence is constant, even in the midst of delays or obstacles. Rather than becoming frustrated, remind yourself that God is your help in trouble, and trust that He is working for your good, even if you can’t see it yet.
5. Encourage Others with The Truth
Share God’s Peace with Others: As you experience God’s peace and refuge in your own life, share it with those around you. Encourage friends or family who may be struggling with fear or uncertainty by pointing them to God’s Word. You can remind them that God is their refuge, too, and help them find peace in His promises.
Support Others in Storms: Sometimes, the best way to apply scripture is by living it out. Be a source of strength and support for others going through storms. Whether it’s a kind word, prayer, or practical help, let others see God’s refuge and strength through your actions.
6. Remember God’s Past Faithfulness
Remember God’s Faithfulness in Your Life: Take time to reflect on past situations where God has helped you through a difficult time. Scripture encourages you to remember that God is always with you. Recalling His faithfulness in the past will strengthen your trust in Him for whatever comes next.
Journal Your Journey: Consider keeping a journal where you write down how God has been your refuge and strength through various storms. Writing it down helps you stay anchored in His faithfulness, and you can look back on those moments when you need encouragement.
7. Strengthen Your Faith Through Scripture
Meditate on God’s promises in His Word Regularly: Make it a habit to read and meditate on scripture, especially during times of trouble. Let the truth of God’s promises sink into your heart and mind. Use the words of this psalm as a way to refocus your mind on God’s presence and power whenever life feels overwhelming.
By living in the truth of message, you can face life’s storms with peace, confidence, and trust in God’s unfailing presence. He is with you, and He is your refuge in all circumstances.
So, today I want to encourage when fear tries to settle into your heart, return to this truth: “The Lord is with you; the God of Jacob is your fortress.” God is not just a refuge for someone else—He is your refuge. He is not just strong for others—He is strong for you. In His presence, there is peace that no storm can take away.
Today’s scripture reading: Psalms 46
1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
3 Though its waters roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah
4 There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High.
5 God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God shall help her, just at the break of dawn.
6 The nations raged, the kingdoms were moved; He uttered His voice, the earth melted.
7 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah
8 Come, behold the works of the Lord, who has made desolations in the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two; He burns the chariot in the fire.
10 Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!
11 The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah
The Daily Dose 