October 22, 2019
For full passage click: Psalm 46:1-5… “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” vs. 1
Sometimes we forget that Martin Luther was not only a great biblical scholar and theologian, he loved music and wrote dozens of hymns for congregational singing. His most famous, “A Mighty Fortress,” took its inspiration from Psalm 46. Luther lived in turbulent times among constantly warring nations and regularly expected to be arrested and put to death. While he was mostly grateful for the protection provided by the Elector of Saxony, he believed that God was his true fortress and strength in every time of danger. This Psalm spoke to his heart. We who have known turmoil and tragedy in our lives understand Luther’s feelings. There are people in our lives who offer protection and assurances. We are blessed to live in communities with police protection and wonderful hospitals. Many of us are under the regular care of a physician–we’re getting the best health care available. But nothing beats knowing that God cares deeply and has our back in every conceivable circumstance. In fact, not even death can separate us from the love of God. It’s particularly important for us to hang on to that hope in times when earthly institutions and governments seem on the verge of breakdown. After our daily exposures to the internet’s charges and counter-charges, it’s good to be able to turn to God as our very present help in trouble. God truly is our never-failing bulwark!
Thought for the Day: What daily help do I get from God?
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