In Times of Trouble

 

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though hits waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. (Psalm 46:1-3 ESV).

 

Triple digit air temperatures and dry weather have allowed the fire danger to return to North Central Texas. The fire pictured here is burning over hundreds of acres and spreading even as I write this devotional in a county near us (Palo Pinto County, Texas). As you can see it is a terrifying sight. Many fire departments are responding, though the danger to homes and other structures has not yet been brought under control. Our prayers for those in the path of this wildfire continues.

 

This challenging condition is not the only danger we face in our world. In fact, since Adam and Eve were cast out of the Garden of Eden hearts of God’s people have been challenged by such circumstances. Our reading today offer encouragement, bolstering our faith in the goodness of God. In our troubled times we may still turn to this psalm.

 

While we will celebrate our hard-won freedom tomorrow, I wonder how many of us really feel free? Has the fear of such trying times given you a sense of dead and discouragement? It may be because of some personal trial of health or finances. Perhaps you are facing the end of a relationship that seems too difficult to bear. Or, you may simply be without hope in the face of the violence that seems to surround us in our modern culture. Hatred and prejudice seem to erupt regularly in our nation. It does drive us to wonder if Jesus can wait much longer before He comes and restores sanity to the world.

 

In the face of that, may I suggest that you remember the words of the psalmist: “Therefore we will not fear… The Lord almighty is with us…”