Unshakeable Hope in God
Notes
Transcript
Unshakeable Hope in God
Unshakeable Hope in God
Psalm 46 (ESV)
To the choirmaster. Of the Sons of Korah. According to Alamoth. A Song.
1 God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah
4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved;
God will help her when morning dawns.
6 The nations rage, the kingdoms totter;
he utters his voice, the earth melts.
7 The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,
how he has brought desolations on the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
he breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
he burns the chariots with 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 fortress. Selah
Introduction:
Introduction:
There’s a famous hymn that begins, “A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing.” This hymn, based on Psalm 46, captures the essence of our unshakable hope in God. Today, we will delve into this psalm and discover the profound hope and strength we have in our Almighty God.
Problem Statement: In our lives and ministries, we face numerous challenges, uncertainties, and crises. How do we maintain hope and strength amid such turmoil? Psalm 46 provides a timeless answer.
Big Idea (BI): God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Transition: The psalmist provides us with three powerful truths about God’s presence and protection that we can hold on to in times of trouble. The first truth...
God Is Our Refuge and Strength (vv.1-3)
God Is Our Refuge and Strength (vv.1-3)
“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.”
The psalmist begins with a declaration that serves as a foundational truth for believers: "God is our refuge and strength." The word "refuge" in Hebrew (מַחְסֶה, machseh) conveys a sense of a safe haven or shelter from danger. In ancient times, cities of refuge were designated places where individuals could flee for protection. This imagery signifies that God provides safety and protection from the dangers and anxieties of life.
"Strength" (עֹז, oz) implies not only physical might but also moral fortitude and inner resilience. It suggests that God imparts the power and courage we need to face life's challenges.
The phrase "a very present help in trouble" highlights God's immediate and ongoing presence. The Hebrew word for "trouble" (צָרָה, tsarah) encompasses distress, adversity, and hardship. God's help is not delayed; it is exceedingly present and active in our moments of need.
The psalmist then describes scenarios of catastrophic upheaval: the earth giving way, mountains moving into the sea, and waters roaring and foaming. These images represent the most extreme forms of chaos and instability. Despite these, we will not fear because our refuge is in God, who is greater than any earthly disaster.
Cross-References:
2 The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer,
my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge,
my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
10 fear not, for I am with you;
be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
The name of the Lord is a strong tower;
the righteous man runs into it and is safe.
I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.”
Illustration: Think about the story of Corrie ten Boom, who found refuge in God during the horrors of World War II. Despite being in a concentration camp, she and her family clung to their faith, drawing strength from God.
Application: As pastors, we face numerous challenges—criticism, burnout, conflicts, and crises. Remember, God is our refuge and strength. When you feel overwhelmed, seek refuge in God through prayer, His Word, and the fellowship of believers. Encourage your congregation to do the same. God is a very present help in trouble
Transition: Let’s move to the next truth about God’s presence...
God Is in the Midst of His People (vv.4-7)
God Is in the Midst of His People (vv.4-7)
“There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns. The nations rage, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts. The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.”
This section begins with a serene image: "There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God." In contrast to the tumultuous waters in verses 2-3, this river symbolizes peace, sustenance, and joy. In ancient times, rivers were vital for a city's survival and prosperity. The "city of God" refers to Jerusalem, where God’s presence dwells.
The "holy habitation of the Most High" emphasizes the sanctity and sacredness of God's dwelling place. This imagery points to both the earthly Jerusalem and the heavenly Zion.
"God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved" assures that with God's presence, the city—and by extension, His people—are secure and unshakeable. This security comes from God’s unchanging nature and His covenantal promises.
"God will help her when morning dawns" suggests timely and consistent divine intervention. Morning often symbolizes new beginnings and hope after the darkness of night.
The psalmist then contrasts the stability of God's city with the chaos among the nations: "The nations rage, the kingdoms totter." Despite global instability, God's voice alone can bring order and peace, signified by the earth melting at His command.
Cross-References:
Psalm 23:4 (ESV)
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Zephaniah 3:17 (ESV)
The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.
For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”
Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb
Illustration: Reflect on the experience of the early church in Acts. Despite persecution and external threats, they found peace and strength because they knew God was with them.
Application: In our ministries, we can often feel isolated or burdened by the weight of our responsibilities. Remember, God is in the midst of His people. We are never alone. Foster a sense of God’s presence in your church through worship, prayer, and the teaching of His Word. Remind your congregation that God’s presence brings peace and stability.
Transition: The final truth from this psalm is...
God Will Be Exalted Among the Nations (vv.8-11)
God Will Be Exalted Among the Nations (vv.8-11)
“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.”
The psalmist invites the reader to witness God's mighty works: "Come, behold the works of the Lord." This call to observe God’s deeds emphasizes His sovereignty and power over all creation.
"How he has brought desolations on the earth" refers to God's judgment and ability to bring about significant changes. God's interventions can sometimes involve dismantling human constructs and systems that oppose His will.
"He makes wars cease to the end of the earth" signifies God's ultimate authority over conflict and strife. God’s peace is comprehensive, extending to the farthest corners of the earth.
The imagery of God breaking bows, shattering spears, and burning chariots symbolizes the disarmament of the world’s instruments of war. It points to a future where God's reign will bring lasting peace.
"Be still, and know that I am God" is a call to trust and surrender, acknowledging God's supreme control and sovereignty. This command invites us to pause and recognize God's power and purpose.
"I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth" underscores the global recognition and worship of God. His glory and dominion will be acknowledged by all people.
Cross-References:
13 And Moses said to the people, “Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will work for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall never see again. 14 The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.”
Isaiah 2:4 (ESV)
4 He shall judge between the nations, and shall decide disputes for many peoples; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
Habakkuk 2:20 (ESV)
But the Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth keep silence before him.”
Illustration: Consider the story of David and Goliath. David’s confidence wasn’t in his own ability but in God’s power to deliver and be exalted through the victory.
Application: In ministry, we often feel the pressure to resolve conflicts and achieve success. Remember that God is ultimately in control. Encourage your congregation to be still and recognize God’s sovereignty. Trust in God’s plan and His timing. He will be exalted among the nations, and His purposes will prevail.
Conclusion:
Conclusion:
Psalm 46 reminds us that God is our refuge and strength, He is in the midst of His people, and He will be exalted among the nations. These truths provide a solid foundation for our hope and strength in every situation.
Powerful Close:
As pastors, let us take heart and be encouraged. God is with us in every challenge we face. He is our refuge, our strength, and our ever-present help. When life’s trials come our way, let us not give in to despair but trust in the One who sustains us. He is our rock, our fortress, and our deliverer.
Illustration to close:
Imagine a ship caught in a violent storm. The waves are crashing, the wind is howling, and the crew is fearful for their lives. But the captain stands firm at the helm, steering the ship with confidence. He knows that beyond the storm, there is calm. Our lives may be like that ship in a storm, but Jesus is our captain, guiding us safely through.
"My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less"