2020 was a rough year and 2021 has some challenges ahead. The coronavirus continues to rage, political polarization is dividing people, the economy is fragile, people are tired and frustrated. It’s a bad combination of events. So the beginning of Psalm 46 is one we all need to hear:
God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble,
Therefore we will not fear
The image that comes to mind when I read Psalm 46 is that of a parent and child. The child is frightened or scared, maybe overtired from the day. They are crying and can’t seem to settle down. The parent comes along and wraps their arms around the child, saying “there, there, everything is going to be okay. I’ve got you, just relax.” No matter how old we get we still need that kind of love from our heavenly father.
Israel was a nation that faced many threats. The Psalmist declares that God is greater than any enemy – seen or unseen. God himself is in Zion, he dwells among his people, and so they need not be fearful. The Psalm ends with this,
Be still and know that I am God
I will be exalted among the nations
I will be exalted in the earth!
No matter what is happening in the nations these days, God will be exalted. He is above all of this. None of this surprises him or will take away from his sovereign plans. Be still and know. Your heavenly Father is caring for you.
