The Refuge

Psalm 46:1–11 (NKJV)

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;

Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah

There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, The holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High.

God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God shall help her, just at the break of dawn.

The nations raged, the kingdoms were moved; He uttered His voice, the earth melted.

The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah

Come, behold the works of the Lord, Who has made desolations in the earth.

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.

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 refuge. Selah

I. The refuge —vv. 1–3

A. Strength—v. 1. God our refuge and strength.

1. Spiritual strength—Isa. 40:31.

2. Physical strength—Phil. 4:13.

B. Stability—vv. 2, 3. Not be afraid though the earth be destroyed. Not fear though the earth be destroyed. Not fear though the mountains be carried into the sea. Note the words of Isa. 40:31.

II. The river—v. 4

This speaks of the Millennial river. Note two important things about this river:

A. Happiness—“There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God.”

B. Holiness—“The holy place of the tabernacles of the most high.” A river always speaks of life and enjoyment.

III. The rock—vv. 5–7

Though a rock is not mentioned, the stability of God

is.

A. Permanent—v. 5. He is with us. He will not forsake—Matt. 28:20.

B. Power—v. 6. He speaks and all things are changed.

C. Personal—v. 7. He is with us. The all-powerful God is with His people always.

IV. The respite—vv. 10, 11

A. Respect—v. 10. Be still and know God. He will be

exalted among the heathen. He will be exalted in

the earth.

B. Refuge—v. 11. God is our refuge. What need we

fear? God is for us, and it doesn’t matter who may

oppose us.