Have you ever been shaken? Left reeling? A person I met with today described it as a “gut punch.” These troubling times may involve an illness, a job loss, a death, a disappointment, or a broken relationship. In today’s passage, the psalmist says it feels like the earth is giving way and the mountains are quaking. But the strength of God can overpower our greatest fears.

Psalm 46:1-3
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.

Father, I can relate to this psalm. I am shaken. The foundations of my life seem to be giving way. Waves of fear slam against my soul. My heart is filled with anxiety. “What ifs” consume my mind. I dread what tomorrow will bring. I am desperate for you. So, I claim the truth of this psalm.

Please be my refuge—I need a place of rest.

Please be my fortress—I need a place of protection.

Please be my strength—My exhaustion is impacting my decisions.

Please be my help—I am not up for this assignment.

Please stay close—I need to feel your presence.

Please hold me up—I don’t want to fall.

Thank you for your promises. Let me see them at work in my life.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.