I walked into my son’s home to find my 8 year old granddaughter hunkered down in her father’s lap, with his arms around her. They were watching the movie “Jaws.” She was nervous and a little scared about the humongous shark on the screen, but she didn’t want to stop watching even though she was unsure of what would happen next. She knew she was safe in the lap and arms of her daddy. I have kept that image in my mind and drawn upon it whenever I have needed the comfort and safety of my Heavenly Father’s Presence. This memory epitomizes the opening verse of Psalm 46 for me.
God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1
As I write this I am experiencing a maelstrom of emotions due to different situations confronting me on multiple fronts. As I read this passage, it brought peace. I physically felt relief to my stress knowing I can run to my Heavenly Father. Nothing in my life is a surprise to Him. I can find refuge and rest in His Presence. So can you.
In this verse the Hebrew word for “trouble” is “tsarah.” It refers to an active sense of trouble, things closing in from all sides, a narrow or constricting distress. The Hebrew meaning of “refuge” also has an active implication which suggests that God is a place we can run to for relief when the world presses in on us.
This psalm ends with this promise.
The Lord of hosts is with us;
The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Psalm 46:11
I don’t think it is any coincidence that the word “Selah” is found after that verse. Selah suggests a pause, rest, or an instruction to worship. We find rest when we rely on the Lord of hosts who is with us at all times.
Even as I write this, I have found rest in the midst of the emotions buffeting me. I have run to My Refuge, My Strength, My Very Present Help in my trouble.
In this moment of “Selah,” I, like my granddaughter, feel safe and secure in the arms of my Abba/Daddy as I face the uncertainty of what comes next. I trust my Father is holding me as He offers refuge, strength, and help.
Where do you need God’s very present help today?