Psalm 46:1-3
God is our refuge and strength, a helper who can always be found in times of trouble. That is why we will not fear when the earth dissolves and when the mountains tumble into the heart of the sea. Its waters roar and foam. The mountains quake when it rises.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for being our ever-present help when trouble comes our way. It is in you that we have a mighty fortress that guards and keeps us from all the ways the devil, the world, and our sinful selves would attack us; we have a safe place with you. With everything happening around us, the world seems like it is just short of collapsing upon itself, but we still have nothing to fear because you are with us. You have provided for us in our greatest trouble—our sin. Jesus came to earth and lived a perfect life without sin, then credited us with his perfection; he covered us in his righteousness. Then he willingly went to the cross and suffered the punishment for our sins; he rose from the dead so we will also rise and have eternal life. We have nothing to fear through faith, even if all the mountains should fall into the sea; we know you are with us. Because Jesus’ holy life and innocent death have restored us to you, there is nothing for us to fear. Even if this life should end abruptly, Jesus has saved us. So please let us take our refuge in you, our mighty fortress. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
“A mighty fortress is our God. A trusty shield and weapon; He helps us free from every need That has us now o’er taken. The old evil foe Now means deadly woe; Deep guile and great might Are his dread arms in fight; On earth is not his equal.” Though devils all the world should fill, All eager to devour us, We tremble not; we fear no ill; They shall not overpower us. This world’s prince may still Scowl fierce as he will, He can harm us none. He’s judged; the deed is done! One little word can fell him.”
Martin Luther (CW 200, Vs. 1, 3)