Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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GOD IS OUR FORTRESS

Psalms 46
The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Come and see what the Lord has done, the desolations he has brought on the earth.

(Psalms 46:7,8)

A fortress is a place where we feel safe and secure. The Lord is our Fortress, in whom we find refuge. God is our true security and foundation. When we go through a crisis, we must look up to God. He is the answer to our problem. Some people find their security in the Pentagon; others in their position or wealth, while many abuse alcohol and drugs to escape the problems of life. These are mere delusions. We must say with the Psalmists, “I will lift up my eyes to the hills: from whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” God has the last word: We may encounter obstacles that can knock us off our feet. We cannot expect an easy path as we journey with God, but He will never forsake us. Struggles, sorrows, and trials are part of life. God did not promise us a smooth sailing; rather the storms rise, the winds blow, and Satan opposes. It is not the absence of storms that sets us apart. It is whom we discover in the storm, our unstirred strong Fortress who makes the difference. God has the last word and nothing is impossible with Him. In the difficult seasons of our life, Psalm 46 provides us with comfort, reassurance, encouragement, and confidence in God. When trouble knocks us down, we must look up to Him. We can trust Him to help us get back on our feet. He strengthens us to move on. God understands and cares about our turmoil and failures. We must turn our focus from the negative circumstances to our Savior. God can calm our restless, turbulent minds and give us His peace.

Anchor on to the Rock of ages. Hope in God, and we will be protected from depression and self-pity. We must cast our burden on God. He is our burden-bearer. He will lighten us and sustain us. Tune in to the living Word. Whenever the tempests strike us, we can run to our Fortress for refuge. We need not fear, even in the midst of hardships, upheavals, or dangers. The basis for this confidence is our mighty Fortress. We are not alone in our pain. God is beside us, and promises never to leave us alone. He is faithful and able to help us and save us. His grace is sufficient for us. He will supply all our needs. Give the reins of our life into His hands. Nothing happens to us that is beyond the knowledge and control of God. When the storms of life batter us, He has us secure in the palm of His hand.

Prayer: Lord, help us to trust you always, even when the situation is bleak and turbulent. Amen.

Saramma Chacko, Epiphany MTC, NY.





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