◄ Psalm 46 ►
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God Is Our Refuge and Strength (2 Kings 18:13–16; 2 Chronicles 32:1–8) For the choirmaster. Of the sons of Korah. According to Alamoth.a A song. 1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. 2Therefore we will not fear, though the earth is transformed and the mountains are toppled into the depths of the seas, 3though their waters roar and foam and the mountains quake in the surge. Selah 4There is a river whose streams delight the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. 5God is within her; she will not be moved. God will help her when morning dawns. 6Nations rage, kingdoms crumble; the earth melts when He lifts His voice. 7The LORD of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah 8Come, see the works of the LORD, who brings devastation upon the earth. 9He makes wars to cease throughout the earth; He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; He burns the shieldsb in the fire. 10“Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted over the earth.” 11The LORD of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah Footnotes: 1 a Alamoth is probably a musical or liturgical term; here and in 1 Chronicles 15:20. 9 b Or chariots Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 46 Summary God Is Our Refuge and Strength Verses 1–3 – God Our Refuge in Chaos The psalm opens by driving home one truth: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble” (v.1). Because He is so close and so strong, fear loses its grip even if mountains slide into the sea and waters roar. The worst natural disaster imaginable cannot shake those who hide in Him. Verses 4–7 – A River of Peace and an Unmoved City From roaring seas the scene jumps to a quiet river that “delights the city of God” (v.4). Jerusalem has no major river, so the picture points to the steady, life-giving flow of God’s own presence. “God is within her; she will not be moved. God will help her when morning dawns” (v.5). Kingdoms fall at His voice, but twice the chorus rings out: “The LORD of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress” (vv.7, 11). Verses 8–11 – The Warrior Who Ends All Wars We are invited to come and see God’s works. He breaks bows, shatters spears, and burns shields (v.9). Then He speaks: “Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted on the earth” (v.10). Human striving stops; His presence stands. The refrain closes the song, stamping its promise on the listener’s heart. Psalm 46, penned by the sons of Korah, serves as a beautiful and timeless reminder of the constant presence and unyielding strength of God. It depicts God as our steadfast refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. The psalm urges us to find inner peace amidst the chaos of the world, drawing our attention to God's power over nature and nations. It also calls for our recognition and exultation of His sovereignty. Authorship and Setting Attributed to “the sons of Korah,” a Levitical guild of temple musicians, Psalm 46 likely celebrates God’s deliverance of Jerusalem from a massive threat—many link it to the Assyrian siege in Hezekiah’s day (2 Kings 18-19; Isaiah 36-37). One night 185,000 enemy soldiers died outside the walls, and the city woke up safe at dawn, fitting verse 5 perfectly. Superscription Details • “For the choirmaster” flags public worship. • “Alamoth” probably points to high voices or high-pitched instruments. • Labeling it “A Song” marks it as confident praise rather than lament. Structure and Refrain Three stanzas (1-3, 4-7, 8-11) end with “Selah,” a musical pause. The recurring chorus (vv.7, 11) drives home the main idea: the LORD’s presence is a fortress stronger than earth, sea, or armies. Key Themes and Cross-References • God’s Nearness: Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5. • Fearless Faith: Romans 8:31-39. • Cosmic Stability: Malachi 3:6; James 1:17. • End of War: Isaiah 2:4; Revelation 19:11-21. • Global Exaltation: Philippians 2:10-11. Historical Echoes: Jerusalem Under Siege Archaeology unearths Hezekiah’s Tunnel (2 Chronicles 32:30) and the Broad Wall—evidence of rushed defenses. Sennacherib’s Prism boasts of caging Hezekiah but never mentions capturing the city, matching the biblical account of sudden deliverance. Water Systems and the “River” Image Jerusalem’s hidden water supply, secured by Hezekiah, may underlie the psalm’s river imagery. Yet the ultimate river is spiritual, mirroring Ezekiel 47:1-12, John 7:38, and Revelation 22:1. “Be Still” in Practice The Hebrew verb literally means “let go” or “stop.” 1. Pause amid alarming headlines. 2. Release the illusion of control. 3. Speak truth: “The LORD of Hosts is with us.” 4. Move forward in calm confidence. “God of Jacob” and Covenant Roots The name ties present safety to ancient promises (Genesis 28:13-15). God protected the wandering patriarch; He still shields His people today (Luke 1:72-73). Messianic Hints and New Testament Fulfillment Jesus embodies “God with us” (Matthew 1:23) and stills stormy seas (Mark 4:39), echoing the psalm’s theme. His cross disarmed spiritual weapons (Colossians 2:15), ensuring the final end of warfare predicted in verse 9. Worship Notes Martin Luther’s “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” paraphrases this psalm and has steadied believers through plagues and wars. Modern worship can mimic the three dramatic scenes: chaos, calm, command. Takeaway When the ground shakes, nations rage, or personal trials roar, Psalm 46 lifts our eyes. God is not merely close; He is in the middle of His people. Drop the panic, be still, and watch Him win. Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 41:10 Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Matthew 11:28-30 Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Teaching Points God as Our Refuge and Strength God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. (Psalm 46:1) The psalm begins by affirming God's role as a protector and source of strength, emphasizing His constant presence. Fearlessness in Chaos Therefore we will not fear, though the earth is transformed and the mountains are toppled into the depths of the seas. (Psalm 46:2) The imagery of natural disasters illustrates that even in the most extreme circumstances, we need not fear because of God's sovereignty. The City of God There is a river whose streams delight the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. (Psalm 46:4) This verse symbolizes God's provision and peace, contrasting the chaos outside with the tranquility within His presence. God's Sovereignty Over Nations He makes wars to cease throughout the earth; He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; He burns the shields in the fire. (Psalm 46:9) God's power over nations and conflicts underscores His ultimate control over world events. Be Still and Know Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted over the earth. (Psalm 46:10) This call to stillness invites believers to trust in God's supremacy and His plan for the world. Practical Applications Trust in God's Presence In times of personal crisis or global uncertainty, remember that God is your refuge and strength. Cultivate Peace Amidst Chaos Practice being still and acknowledging God's control, especially when life feels overwhelming. Seek God's Peace Regularly spend time in prayer and meditation, drawing from the river of God's peace and provision. Proclaim God's Sovereignty Share the message of God's power and peace with others, encouraging them to find refuge in Him. People 1. God The central figure in Psalm 46, God is depicted as a refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). The Hebrew word used here for God is "Elohim," which emphasizes His power and might. The psalm describes God's ability to bring peace and His presence among His people. 2. The LORD of Hosts This title for God appears in Psalm 46:7 and 46:11. The Hebrew term "Yahweh Sabaoth" refers to God as the commander of the heavenly armies, highlighting His sovereignty and authority over all creation. 3. The God of Jacob Mentioned in Psalm 46:7 and 46:11, this title emphasizes God's covenant relationship with the descendants of Jacob (Israel). It underscores His faithfulness and commitment to His people. The psalm does not mention any other specific individuals or groups of people, focusing instead on the attributes and actions of God. Places 1. Earth The psalm speaks of the earth as a place that can be moved or changed, reflecting the instability and chaos that can occur in the world. The Hebrew word used here is "אֶרֶץ" (erets), which can mean land, earth, or ground. 2. Mountains These are described as being moved into the heart of the sea, symbolizing upheaval and the power of God over creation. The Hebrew word for mountains is "הָרִים" (harim). 3. Sea The sea is depicted as roaring and foaming, representing chaos and danger. The Hebrew term "יָם" (yam) is used, which often symbolizes tumultuous forces in biblical literature. 4. City of God This refers to Jerusalem, the holy city where God dwells. It is described as a place of refuge and stability. The Hebrew phrase "עִיר אֱלֹהִים" (ir elohim) is used, emphasizing its divine significance. 5. Holy Place This is the dwelling of the Most High, indicating the temple or the sacred space where God's presence is manifest. The Hebrew term "מִקְדָּשׁ" (miqdash) is often associated with the sanctuary or holy place. 6. Nations While not a specific geographic location, the nations are mentioned as being in uproar, highlighting the global scope of God's sovereignty. The Hebrew word "גּוֹיִם" (goyim) refers to peoples or nations. Events 1. God as Refuge and Strength "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble." (Psalm 46:1) The Hebrew word for "refuge" (מַחֲסֶה, machaseh) implies a shelter or place of trust, highlighting God's role as a protector. 2. Fearlessness Amidst Natural Chaos "Therefore we will not fear, though the earth is transformed and the mountains are toppled into the depths of the seas," (Psalm 46:2) The imagery of natural upheaval underscores the stability found in God despite external chaos. 3. Waters Roaring and Mountains Quaking "though their waters roar and foam and the mountains quake in the surge." (Psalm 46:3) The Hebrew word for "roar" (הָמָה, hamah) conveys a sense of tumult, reflecting the overwhelming nature of the challenges faced. 4. The River of God's City "There is a river whose streams delight the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells." (Psalm 46:4) The river symbolizes God's provision and peace, contrasting the chaos of the previous verses. 5. God's Presence in the City "God is within her; she will not be moved. God will help her when morning dawns." (Psalm 46:5) The assurance of God's presence (בְּקִרְבָּהּ, beqirbah) provides stability and hope. 6. Nations in Uproar and Kingdoms Falling "Nations rage, kingdoms crumble; the earth melts when He lifts His voice." (Psalm 46:6) The Hebrew word for "rage" (הָמָה, hamah) is the same as used for the roaring waters, indicating turmoil among nations. 7. The Lord of Hosts with Us "The LORD of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress." (Psalm 46:7) "LORD of Hosts" (יְהוָה צְבָאוֹת, Yahweh Tseva'ot) emphasizes God's command over heavenly armies, reinforcing His power and protection. 8. Desolation and Peace "Come, see the works of the LORD, who brings devastation upon the earth." (Psalm 46:8) God's sovereignty is demonstrated through His control over both destruction and peace. 9. Ceasing of Wars "He makes wars to cease throughout the earth; He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; He burns the shields with fire." (Psalm 46:9) The cessation of war highlights God's ultimate authority over human conflict. 10. Be Still and Know "Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted over the earth." (Psalm 46:10) The call to "be still" (רָפָה, raphah) is an invitation to trust and recognize God's supremacy. 11. Reaffirmation of God's Presence "The LORD of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress." (Psalm 46:11) This repetition underscores the central theme of God's protective presence. Lessons from Psalm 46 1. God is Our Refuge and Strength In times of trouble, we often seek comfort and security. Psalm 46:1 reminds us, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble." This verse assures us that no matter the storm, God is our safe haven. When life feels overwhelming, remember that you have a divine fortress ready to protect and empower you. 2. Fear Not, Even When the Earth Shakes The world can be a scary place, with natural disasters and personal crises shaking our foundations. Yet, Psalm 46:2-3 encourages us, "Therefore we will not fear, though the earth is transformed and the mountains are toppled into the depths of the seas." This is a call to trust in God's sovereignty, knowing that He holds the universe in His hands. 3. The River of Joy Amidst chaos, there is a river that brings joy and peace. Psalm 46:4 tells us, "There is a river whose streams delight the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells." This river symbolizes the Holy Spirit, bringing life and joy to our souls. Tap into this divine source of peace and let it flow through your life. 4. God is Within Us Psalm 46:5 declares, "God is within her; she will not be moved. God will help her when morning dawns." This verse reassures us that God dwells within us, providing stability and support. With His presence, we can face each day with confidence, knowing that we are never alone. 5. Nations May Rage, But God is in Control In a world filled with political turmoil and conflict, it's easy to feel anxious. Yet, Psalm 46:6 reminds us, "Nations rage, kingdoms crumble; the earth melts when He lifts His voice." God's power surpasses all earthly authority, and His plans will prevail. Trust in His ultimate control over the affairs of the world. 6. The Lord of Hosts is With Us Psalm 46:7 proclaims, "The LORD of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress." This is a powerful reminder that the same God who led Israel is with us today. He is our protector and defender, ready to fight our battles and provide shelter in times of need. 7. Witness the Works of the Lord Take a moment to observe the wonders of God's creation and His mighty works. Psalm 46:8 invites us, "Come, see the works of the LORD, who brings devastation upon the earth." Reflecting on His power and majesty can strengthen our faith and remind us of His ability to transform any situation. 8. Be Still and Know In the hustle and bustle of life, it's crucial to pause and reflect. Psalm 46:10 instructs us, "Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted over the earth." This is an invitation to quiet our hearts, acknowledge His sovereignty, and find peace in His presence. 9. God Will Be Exalted God's glory will ultimately be recognized by all. Psalm 46:10 assures us, "I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted over the earth." This promise gives us hope and encourages us to live in a way that honors Him, knowing that His name will be lifted high. 10. The God of Jacob is Our Fortress Finally, Psalm 46:11 reiterates, "The LORD of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress." This closing verse reinforces the theme of divine protection and presence. As we navigate life's challenges, we can rest in the assurance that God is our unshakeable fortress, always ready to shelter and guide us. Topics 1. God as Refuge and Strength Psalm 46 opens with the declaration, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble" (Psalm 46:1). The Hebrew word for "refuge" (מַחֲסֶה, machaseh) conveys a sense of shelter or protection, emphasizing God's role as a safe haven for believers. 2. Fearlessness in Adversity The psalmist expresses confidence in God's protection, stating, "Therefore we will not fear, though the earth is transformed and the mountains are toppled into the depths of the seas" (Psalm 46:2). This reflects a trust in God that transcends natural disasters and chaos. 3. The Presence of God in the City The psalm describes a river that brings joy to the city of God, "the holy place where the Most High dwells" (Psalm 46:4). The imagery of a river (נָהָר, nahar) symbolizes life and sustenance, highlighting God's sustaining presence among His people. 4. God's Sovereignty Over Nations The psalmist acknowledges God's power over the nations, stating, "Nations rage, kingdoms crumble; the earth melts when He lifts His voice" (Psalm 46:6). This underscores God's ultimate authority and control over worldly powers. 5. The Call to Be Still and Know God A pivotal moment in the psalm is the call to "Be still and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10). The Hebrew term for "be still" (רָפָה, raphah) implies a cessation of striving, inviting believers to trust in God's sovereignty and presence. 6. God as the Lord of Hosts The psalm concludes with the affirmation, "The LORD of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress" (Psalm 46:11). The title "LORD of Hosts" (יְהוָה צְבָאוֹת, Yahweh Tseva'ot) emphasizes God's command over heavenly armies, reinforcing His power and protection. Themes 1. God as Refuge and Strength Psalm 46 opens with the declaration, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble" (Psalm 46:1). The Hebrew word for "refuge" (מַחֲסֶה, machaseh) conveys a sense of shelter or protection, emphasizing God's role as a safe haven for believers. 2. Fearlessness in Adversity The psalmist encourages believers not to fear, even if the earth gives way or mountains fall into the sea (Psalm 46:2-3). This theme highlights the steadfastness of faith in God's sovereignty, regardless of natural or existential threats. 3. The Presence of God in the City The psalm describes a river that brings joy to the city of God, where the Most High dwells (Psalm 46:4). This theme underscores the peace and stability found in God's presence, with "city" (עִיר, 'ir) symbolizing the community of believers. 4. God's Sovereignty Over Nations The psalm proclaims that nations are in uproar and kingdoms fall, but God lifts His voice and the earth melts (Psalm 46:6). This theme reflects God's ultimate authority over political and worldly powers, emphasizing His control over history. 5. Divine Intervention and Protection The psalmist assures that "The LORD of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress" (Psalm 46:7). The term "fortress" (מִשְׂגָּב, misgab) suggests a stronghold, reinforcing the idea of divine protection and intervention in times of crisis. 6. Call to Witness God's Works The psalm invites believers to "Come, see the works of the LORD" (Psalm 46:8), encouraging reflection on God's mighty deeds. This theme emphasizes the importance of recognizing and remembering God's past acts of deliverance and power. 7. Peace through God's Power The psalm concludes with the assurance that God makes wars cease and breaks the bow (Psalm 46:9). This theme highlights the peace that comes from God's power to end conflict and bring about reconciliation. 8. Exaltation of God Among Nations The psalm declares, "Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations" (Psalm 46:10). This theme calls for a recognition of God's supremacy and the ultimate acknowledgment of His glory by all peoples. 9. Reassurance of God's Presence Reiterating the refrain, "The LORD of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress" (Psalm 46:11), the psalm closes with a reaffirmation of God's constant presence and protection, providing comfort and assurance to believers. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Presence Thank God for being an ever-present help and refuge in times of trouble. Peace in Turmoil Pray for the ability to remain still and trust in God's sovereignty amidst life's chaos. Strength and Courage Ask God for strength and courage to face challenges without fear, knowing He is in control. Proclamation of God's Power Pray for opportunities to share the message of God's power and peace with others. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can the depiction of the earth “giving way” (Psalm 46:2) be reconciled with scientific evidence for stable geological processes? 2. Why does the imagery of roaring and foaming waters (Psalm 46:3) conflict with modern oceanographic understanding? 3. How does the promise that God makes wars cease (Psalm 46:9) align with the unceasing record of global conflicts throughout history? 4. Can the claim that “God is our refuge and strength” (Psalm 46:1) be historically validated via archeological or extra-biblical evidence? 5. Why does Psalm 46 present God’s protection differently compared to other biblical passages that depict divine interventions more explicitly? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the depiction of God as our refuge and strength in Psalm 46 provide comfort in your current situation? 2. What natural disasters and societal upheavals mentioned in Psalm 46 can you relate to in today's world? 3. In what ways have you experienced God as an "ever-present help in trouble"? 4. How can the message of God’s stability bring peace into your life, particularly in the face of current global challenges? 5. How does the concept of the "city of God" reflect your understanding of God's kingdom? 6. Reflect on a time when you felt like the 'nations were in uproar.' How did God bring peace? 7. What does it mean to "be still, and know that I am God"? How can this be applied in your daily life? 8. How do you see God’s sovereignty being exalted in the world today? 9. How does recognizing God's supremacy bring peace and assurance in your life? 10. How can you apply the lesson of God shattering the weapons of war in your personal conflicts? 11. How does Psalm 46 encourage you to trust God during times of fear and uncertainty? 12. How can this Psalm change your perspective on the current global situation? 13. What actionable steps can you take to enhance your faith in God as a refuge and strength? 14. How can the images of chaos in nature in Psalm 46 be related to personal turmoil or chaos in one’s life? 15. How can you promote peace in your community, reflecting the peace God establishes in the city of God? 16. How can we live in such a way that reflects our belief that God is our fortress? 17. How does Psalm 46 change your view on conflicts and challenges in your life? 18. How can you encourage others with the message of God’s sovereignty as depicted in Psalm 46? 19. How does the contrast between the chaotic world and the peaceful city of God impact your view of Heaven? 20. How would you share the message of God as a refuge and strength to someone who doesn't know Him yet? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions