Psalms 46

¹ To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth. God [is] our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

² Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;

³ [Though] the waters thereof roar [and] be troubled, [though] the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.

⁴ [There is] a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy [place] of the tabernacles of the most High.

⁵ God [is] in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, [and that] right early.

⁶ The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved: he uttered his voice, the earth melted.

⁷ The LORD of hosts [is] with us; the God of Jacob [is] our refuge. Selah.

⁸ Come, behold the works of the LORD, what desolations he hath made in the earth.

⁹ He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire.

¹⁰ Be still, and know that I [am] God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.

¹¹ The LORD of hosts [is] with us; the God of Jacob [is] our refuge. Selah.

Table of Contents

Overview of Psalm 46

Psalm 46 is a powerful declaration of God’s presence and protection in times of trouble. It is often interpreted as a source of comfort and strength, emphasizing the idea that God is a refuge for His people. This psalm is traditionally attributed to the sons of Korah and is often associated with themes of divine sovereignty and peace amidst chaos.

Structure of Psalm 46

The chapter can be divided into three main sections:

Verses 1-3: Assurance of God’s Protection
Verses 4-7: The River of God and His Presence
Verses 8-11: Call to Witness God’s Works

Detailed Analysis

Verses 1-3: Assurance of God’s Protection

These opening verses establish the foundational theme of the psalm: God as a refuge and strength. The imagery used conveys a sense of safety and stability.

God as Refuge: The term “refuge” suggests a place of safety and shelter, highlighting God’s role as a protector in times of distress.
Strength: The psalmist emphasizes that God is not just a passive shelter but an active source of strength.
Fearlessness in Chaos: The verses illustrate that even if the earth gives way and mountains fall into the sea, believers need not fear, as God’s presence provides unwavering support.

Verses 4-7: The River of God and His Presence

This section shifts to a more serene image of God’s presence, contrasting the chaos described in the previous verses.

River Imagery: The “river” symbolizes the life-giving and sustaining presence of God, suggesting joy and peace amidst turmoil.
God’s City: Referring to the city of God, this imagery represents the community of believers and God’s dwelling among them.
Divine Help: The assurance that God will help His people at the break of dawn indicates His timely intervention and faithfulness.

Verses 8-11: Call to Witness God’s Works

The final verses serve as a call to observe and acknowledge God’s mighty works, reinforcing His sovereignty over the nations.

Invitation to Witness: The psalmist invites the reader to come and see the works of the Lord, encouraging a reflective and responsive faith.
God’s Sovereignty: The declaration that God makes wars cease and breaks the bow emphasizes His ultimate authority over human affairs.
Be Still and Know: The command to “be still” serves as a reminder to trust in God’s plan and presence, reinforcing the theme of peace amidst chaos.

Theological Themes

Divine Protection: The psalm underscores the belief that God is an ever-present help, providing safety and refuge.
Presence of God: The imagery of the river and the city of God highlights the importance of God’s presence in the lives of His people.
Sovereignty and Peace: The psalm concludes with a strong affirmation of God’s sovereignty, encouraging believers to trust in His power and plan.

Conclusion

Psalm 46 is a profound expression of faith that reassures believers of God’s protective presence in tumultuous times. It encourages a response of trust and stillness in the face of chaos, affirming the belief that God is both a refuge and a source of strength. The themes of divine sovereignty and peace resonate throughout the psalm, making it a timeless source of comfort and inspiration.

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Andrew

I’m Andrew, and I write Learn Bible Daily to help you connect with God in a simple, real way — one verse at a time. I believe the Bible should feel like a conversation, not a textbook.

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