3 Great Assurances for Those Who Are Swallowed Up in Troubles
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Swallowed up with troubles
We’ve all experienced times of trouble—of adversity, affliction, and anxiety. We know the torment of being in distress. It causes feelings that range from fear and isolation to anger, causing us to lash out in some way.
You may wonder where God is when you feel swallowed by anxiety, like Jonah inside the whale. Many people wonder why God doesn’t do something about all the evil and disaster swirling around the world. We all wonder about this.
Trouble comes in many forms. It's felt both internally and externally. Some troubles are easier to resolve than others. Of course, pop psychology tells us not to worry about what we can't control, but we do.
We worry about the economy, the environment, and climate change, and fret over national and international violence. But really, what can we do about such things?
This psalm answers the question of what we can do when swallowed up in trouble. Its answer is both simple and profound. The psalmist gives three assurances to those who trust in God in the face of what is beyond their control.
The psalmist punctuates each assurance with a Selah. This is a term often found in the psalms. Selah has no specific meaning but suggests the reader (or hearer) pause and reflect on what precedes it.
Scripture
[For the choir director; a song by the descendants of Korah; according to alamoth.]
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.
That is why we are not afraid even when the earth quakes or the mountains topple into the depths of the sea.
Water roars and foams, and mountains shake at the surging waves. Selah [vss 1-3]
There is a river whose streams bring joy to the city of God, the holy place where the Most High lives.
God is in that city. It cannot fall. God will help it at the break of dawn.
Nations are in turmoil, and kingdoms topple. The earth melts at the sound of God’s voice.
The Lord of Armies is with us. The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Selah [vss 4-7]
Come, see the works of the Lord, the devastation he has brought to the earth.
He puts an end to wars all over the earth. He breaks an archer’s bow.
He cuts spears in two. He burns chariots.
Let go of your concerns! Then you will know that I am God.
I rule the nations. I rule the earth.
The Lord of Armies is with us. The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Selah [vss 8-11]
(Psalm 46:1-11 GW) [Context– Psalm 46]
Reflections and Insights
One thing we don't do is hide our heads in the sand. We trust in God as our refuge—our shelter in times of trouble. He is our strength, the one who watches over us. Note the confidence of the psalmist— “That is why we are not afraid even when the earth quakes….”
We do not need to fear as others do.
I often go down to the ocean to watch the waves break and roll into the shore, even when it's stormy. I'll step barefoot into the edge of the water and watch as the water flows around my feet.
I sense God's presence and peace in the midst of the power of the ocean. He is my refuge and strength. He washes away all my worries when I trust in Him.
The second assurance gives us an image of a river that brings joy flowing through the city of God. A river bringing joy to the people of God. We find a similar image in the books of Ezekiel and Revelation (Ezekiel 47:1-12; Revelation 22:1-6).
The presence of God will sustain us and fill us with joy like a mighty river, even when turmoil surrounds us. Once again, we’re reminded of God’s presence and power. Selah!
The third assurance includes two exhortations directed to all people—
Come, see the works of the Lord…
Let go of your concerns! Then you will know that I am God. (Psalms 46:8, 10 GW)
The first exhortation is an invitation to remember God’s sovereign power. The second one tells us to “let go” of our troubles. Perhaps it will be more familiar to you as expressed in many other Bible versions— “Be still, and know that I am God….”
We're exhorted to be silent—still—and realize or remember that God is sovereign over all. His presence brings peace even in a time of war, or when thoughts and feelings battle within us.
When you’re swallowed up in troubles, regardless of what they are, remember these three great assurances—
Do not fear as others who don’t trust in God.
Trust God to flow through your life to bring joy in the midst of trouble.
Let go of your troubles, still your heart and mind to know God’s presence and peace.
Digging deeper to Make it personal...
Review the Scriptures above as you consider the following questions
Who does the psalmist declare about God?
What does the psalmist say is the direct result of who he knows God to be?
What image is given to illustrate God’s presence and power?
What causes you the most anxiety or fear?
Are you willing to let go of your fears and worries and trust God?
Have you ever experienced the joy and peace of God in your life?
Are you willing to trust in God, and to rest and be still in His presence?
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