God's Presence

Psalm 46 remains one of my favorites. In 46:10 the text reads, "Be still and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." The psalmist reminds us that God is ever-present. The first verse launches the idea. "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." God is immediately present. He is not asleep or inattentative to our needs. God is always with us. Our responsibility is to trust Him and call upon His Presence to protect and strengthen. God often jogs our memories through the simple things that He is present. A full moon, a rainbow, a star-lit night, the transformation of the earth during spring, the beauty of a child's smile, the gift of laughter along with numerous "little things" together touch our souls that indeed God is with us.

Even though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea we are not alone. (46:2) God is present when the economy languishes. The Lord is with us when we see changes in our republic that many view as troubling. No matter the circumstances of our personal lives the Lord is constant. His power strengthens and empowers. (Ephesians 3:20-21) As the psalmist speaks of the city of God he writes, "God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns." Regardless of the swirling winds and threatening storms we face God's Presence and power are at work in our lives. At times we may not even be aware of how God moves in mysterious ways in order to accomplish His purposes. The Lord God is also described in the psalm as "our fortress." Think about a fortress for a moment and you will note a place of protection and security. If we trust in God's presence and power will fend off the enemies attempts to distract and discourage. God does leave us defenseless. What a wonderful sentiment that God embraces us and keeps evil from overwhelming our lives. For this will we are grateful!