God is our refuge and strength, a very ready help in trouble. (Psalm 46:1)

Is this your declaration when facing trouble? This past week, the southeastern United States encountered a category 4 hurricane with a destructive storm surge and devastating effects from wind and rain resulting in extensive loss of power, property, and life. The Psalmist faced some challenges that might have evoked the same fear:

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth shakes and the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains quake at its swelling pride. Selah (Psalm 46:2-3)

Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have faced the ravages of this recent storm. What gives us strength to persevere in the time of overwhelming trouble? The Psalmist gave us a clue as he demonstrated an unshakable confidence in God. When we encounter challenging situations, we may not know why this is happening, but we need to know that God can give us His peace – even in the midst of the storm. Jesus did not keep the disciples from the storm at sea, but He was with them. We live in a fallen world. Nature is beautiful, but it also extremely powerful and we must respect that power.

In the The Chronicles of Narnia, C.S. Lewis  gave an apt description of God as a strong lion whose name was Aslan. Mrs. Beaver warned the children. “If there’s anyone who can appear before Aslan without their knees knocking, they’re either braver than most or else just silly.” “Then he isn’t safe?” said Lucy. “Safe?” said Mr. Beaver. “Don’t you hear what Mrs. Beaver tells you? Who said anything about safe? ’Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King, I tell you.” Our God is not safe, but He’s good. Rest on the affirmation of the Psalmist:

The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold. Selah. (Psalm 46:7 & 11)