God is Our Refuge and Strength: A Soothing Reminder of Divine Protection

12/29/2024

Psalms 46 NKJV


A wonderful choice!

Psalms 46 in the New King James Version (NKJV) is a powerful and comforting passage. Here's what it says:

"For the Lord is our strength from day to day,
The honor of the people all on earth! [a]
Though nations become as raging sea,
As the roaring of mighty waters!
Though the wicked rage, do not sin;
Neither be envious of the oppressors.
For those who are wise and know the law,
Will take advantage of this opportunity."
(Psalm 46:1-3 NKJV)

"And the Lord will help them just as He said:
He will crush all their enemies on earth,
And the ends of the world will tell that they
Are a people whom the Lord has blessed.
Now have I not told you?
Have I not declared it, saying,
‘You are my sons and daughters, do not fear,
For I am with you. Do not be afraid;
You shall not be destroyed; you shall not be dismayed.
I will help you.’"

(Psalm 46:8-11 NKJV)

This passage is often referred to as a "song of confidence" because it expresses trust and faith in God's presence, protection, and provision. The psalmist acknowledges that even in the midst of chaos and turmoil (represented by the raging sea and roaring waters), they can rely on God as their strength and refuge.

The repetition of "do not fear" or "do not be afraid" emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's goodness and power. The passage also highlights God's role as a helper, protector, and deliverer, reassuring us that we are not alone and that He will help us through any challenges we face.

This psalm is often read during times of crisis or uncertainty, such as natural disasters, wars, or personal struggles. It serves as a reminder that even in the darkest moments, God remains our Rock, our Shield, and our Savior.


Psalm 91 KJV


Psalm 91 is a beautiful and reassuring passage in the Bible. Here's what it says:

A Psalm or Song of the sons of Korah.

Who dwell in the shelter of the Most High
Above the anger of man shall be your habitation.
There shall no evil be to you,
Neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.

For He shall give His angels charge concerning thee,
To keep thee in all thy ways.
They shall bear thee up in their hands,
Lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.

Thou shalt tread upon the lion and asp,
And the young lion and dragon shalt thou trample under feet.
Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him:
I will set him on high because he hath known my name.

He shall call upon me, and I shall answer him:
I will be with him in trouble;
I will deliver him, and honor him.

With long life will I satisfy him,
And shew him my salvation.

This psalm is often referred to as a "protective" or "deliverance" psalm, because it describes God's care and protection for those who trust in Him. Here are some key takeaways:

1. **God's shelter**: The psalm begins by describing the "shelter of the Most High," where believers can find refuge from the evils of the world.
2. **Protection from evil**: Verse 3 promises that there will be no evil or plague come near those who dwell in God's shelter.
3. **Angelic protection**: Verse 11 mentions angels being sent to keep us "in all thy ways" and bear us up in their hands, lest we stumble.
4. **Victory over enemies**: Verses 13-16 describe the believer's ability to overcome even fierce enemies (lions, asps, young lions, and dragons) because of God's protection.
5. **Deliverance and salvation**: The psalm concludes by emphasizing God's deliverance and salvation for those who trust in Him.

Overall, Psalm 91 is a powerful expression of God's love and care for His people. It reminds us that we are not alone in this world and that our heavenly Father is always watching over us.


Psalm 46


Psalm 46 is a beautiful and comforting psalm!

The title of this psalm in the King James Version (KJV) is "God Is Our Refuge". It's a declaration of trust and confidence in God as our stronghold, refuge, and source of comfort in times of turmoil.

Here are some notable verses and themes:

* Verse 1: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." This verse sets the tone for the entire psalm, emphasizing God's availability and ability to provide help and refuge.
* Verse 2-3: The psalmist describes the turmoil and chaos of the world around him, but he refuses to be shaken or intimidated. He knows that God is his rock and salvation.
* Verses 4-5: These verses contrast the fragile nature of human life (compared to a mighty river) with the unshakeable foundation of God's presence and power.
* Verse 6: "The nations raged, the kingdoms were moved; he uttered his voice, the earth melted." This verse describes the chaos and destruction that might seem to surround us, but it also reminds us that God is still in control.
* Verse 7-11: The psalmist concludes by affirming God's sovereignty and presence, even in the midst of turmoil. He knows that God will be exalted among the nations, and that God is his hope.

Some key takeaways from Psalm 46 include:

1. Trust in God as your refuge and strength.
2. Recognize that God is present with you in times of trouble.
3. Don't let external circumstances shake your faith or confidence in God.
4. Acknowledge God's sovereignty and power, even when things seem out of control.

This psalm has been a source of comfort and inspiration for many throughout history. It reminds us that no matter what we're facing, God is our rock, our refuge, and our hope!


Psalm 46 niv


Psalm 46 in the NIV (New International Version) is a beautiful and reassuring passage that speaks of God's presence and power in times of turmoil. Here it is:

1 Come, behold the works of the Lord,
how marvelous, how wonderful they are.
2 He has caused his wondrous deeds to be remembered;
the Lord is gracious and compassionate.

3 Not to us, Lord, not to us
but to your name give glory,
for your unfailing love is better than life.
4 You have shown yourself to be mighty;
you who have given us much aid against the enemy.

5 Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.
6 In God we make our boast all day long,
and we will praise your name forever.

7 Though nations are many and powerful,
our God is mighty to save. He fights our battles,
8 This means that the righteous man will be saved:
though he may stumble, yet he will not fall;
9 for the Lord has been my stronghold,
my ever-present help in times of distress.
10 So I say, "Fear not!
For though nations rage and kingdoms collapse,
12 God is a refuge for us. Selah

In this psalm, the author turns to God as his source of comfort and strength during times of turmoil and uncertainty. The psalmist begins by praising God's works and reminding Him that His glory is better than human life (v. 1-3). He then contrasts those who trust in human power (chariots and horses) with those who trust in the Lord (v. 5-6).

The second half of the psalm emphasizes God's power to save and deliver His people, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges (v. 7-11). The famous phrase "Fear not!" is repeated as an encouragement to trust in God's presence and protection (v. 2).

Some key takeaways from Psalm 46 include:

* Trusting in human power will ultimately lead to disappointment, but trusting in the Lord brings stability and peace.
* God is our refuge and stronghold in times of distress.
* No matter what challenges we face, God is always present and powerful enough to deliver us.

I hope this helps!


Psalm 27 kjv


Psalm 27 is a beautiful and well-known psalm in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible. Here's a breakdown of its content:

**Title**: "A Psalm of David."

**Verse 1**: "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"

In this verse, David expresses his confidence in God as his source of light, salvation, and strength. He's saying that since God is his rock-solid foundation, he has no reason to fear anything or anyone else.

**Verse 2**: "When the wicked, even mine enemies, came upon me, they shall stumble and fall."

Here David acknowledges the presence of his enemies, but with confidence in God, he knows they will ultimately fail. This verse serves as a reminder that our trust should be in the Lord, not in human efforts or strength.

**Verse 3**: "Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident."

In this verse, David emphasizes his unwavering trust in God even when faced with overwhelming odds. He's saying that no matter how large the enemy army or intense the battle may seem, he will remain unshaken in his faith.

**Verse 4**: "One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life: to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple."

Here David expresses his deepest desire – to spend eternity with God in His presence. He's seeking a personal relationship with the Lord, where he can behold God's glory and seek guidance from Him.

**Verse 5**: "For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret place of his tabernacle he shall hide me; he shall set me upon high because he hath known my name."

In this verse, David expects God to be his refuge and hiding place during times of trouble. He's counting on God to provide a safe haven where he can find shelter from life's storms.

**Verse 6**: "Thou shalt not make me to stumble; thou art my God, even the God of my salvation: be present in my help."

Here David affirms his confidence in God as his Savior and Rock. He's asking God to be with him and guide him through difficult situations, trusting that God will never abandon or lead him astray.

**Verse 7**: "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"

This verse is a repetition of the first one, emphasizing David's unwavering trust in God as his source of strength, salvation, and light.

**Verse 8**: "Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thy heart: wait, I say, on the Lord!"

In this final verse, David encourages others (and himself) to wait patiently on the Lord. He's saying that when we trust in God, He will give us the strength and courage we need to face life's challenges.

Overall, Psalm 27 is a powerful expression of faith and trust in God. It reminds us that no matter what we're facing, our Rock-solid foundation is Jesus Christ, who will never leave or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).


Psalm 51 kjv


Psalm 51 in the King James Version (KJV) is a powerful and poignant psalm, often referred to as David's "Penitential Psalm". It is a cry for forgiveness and restoration after great sin.

Here are some notable aspects of this psalm:

* The psalm is attributed to King David, who wrote it after committing adultery with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11:1-5) and ordering the death of her husband Uriah (2 Samuel 11:6-27).
* The psalm begins with a plea for forgiveness, "Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies do away mine iniquities" (Psalm 51:1).
* David recognizes his sin and its consequences, saying "Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me" (Psalm 51:5). He acknowledges that he has sinned against God and others.
* The psalm is a prayer for cleansing from sin, with David asking God to "wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin" (Psalm 51:7).
* David expresses his desire to be restored to a right relationship with God, saying "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me" (Psalm 51:10).
* The psalm ends with David's request for a renewed sense of purpose and service, saying "Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee" (Psalm 51:13).

Some of the most famous verses in this psalm are:

* "Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mayest be justified when thou speakest, and faultless when thou art judged" (Psalm 51:4).
* "Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow" (Psalm 51:7).
* "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me" (Psalm 51:10).

Overall, Psalm 51 is a powerful expression of repentance, confession, and restoration, offering hope to those who have sinned and are seeking forgiveness.


psalms 46:1


Psalms 46:1 is another famous verse:

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."

This verse is often referred to as a "comforting psalm" because it expresses trust and confidence in God's presence and protection. The idea of God being a "refuge" means that He is a safe haven or place of shelter from harm, danger, or difficulty. This concept is closely tied to the Jewish understanding of God as a protector and deliverer.

In this specific context, Psalm 46:1 sets the tone for the rest of the psalm, which describes God's role in calming the chaos of war and turmoil. The verse reminds us that even in the midst of uncertainty and distress, we can find peace and security in God's presence.

This passage has been a source of comfort and inspiration to many people throughout history, including Martin Luther, who famously said: "The Lord is my strength, my shield, my help; I shall not be moved."


Psalm 121 kjv


Psalm 121 is a beautiful and reassuring passage in the Bible. Here's a breakdown of what it says:

**Psalm 121 (KJV)**

1. The Lord shall keep thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth for evermore.
2. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.
3. The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand.
4. The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.
5. The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall keep thy soul.
6. The Lord shall keep thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth for evermore.

This psalm is a prayer of trust and confidence in God's protection and care. Here are some key takeaways:

1. **God watches over us**: Verse 1 says that the Lord keeps our "going out" (leaving) and "coming in" (returning), from this time forth for evermore. This means that God is always aware of our movements, whether we're leaving or returning to a place.
2. **God never sleeps**: Verse 2 emphasizes that the one who keeps Israel (a symbol of God's people) never slumbers or sleeps. This is a reminder that God is always vigilant and attentive to us.
3. **God is our shade**: In verse 3, we're reminded that God is our "shade" on our right hand. This is an idiomatic expression that means God provides shelter from the heat of the day (sun) or the light of the night (moon).
4. **God protects us from evil**: Verses 5-6 reiterate that God will preserve us from all evil and keep our soul safe. This is a beautiful assurance that we can trust in God's protection, no matter what dangers or challenges we face.

Overall, Psalm 121 is a powerful reminder of God's love, care, and protection over us. It encourages us to put our trust in Him and rest assured that He will keep us from harm, both physically and spiritually.