Read:
Psalm 46
Many, many years ago in a small town in Germany, a young thirty-something priest and college professor was facing some very uncertain times. He previously enjoyed the quiet life serving the Lord, teaching his classes, and writing his papers. Recently disgruntled with the church’s policy of allowing congregants to pay for sins with cash, he listed almost one hundred reasons why it was wrong and tacked his list to the bulletin board on the door of his church next to other assignments and upcoming events.
Soon branded a heretic, then an outlaw, he awaited imminent ex-communication and possible death. Hidden away by friends, he took solace in Psalm 46:1-3, 1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, 3 though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.
Inspired, he penned these unforgettable words:
A mighty fortress is our God,
A bulwark never failing:
Our helper he, amid the flood
Of mortal ills prevailing.
For still our ancient foe
Doth seek to work his woe;
His craft and power are great,
And armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.
Question:
In these uncertain times, where are you trusting God as your refuge and strength? Where has he been your mighty fortress? We can hold tight to him and weather whatever storms await us.
Matt Liston