By J S Duvall
I like to be in control. But there are some things I simply cannot control, no matter how hard I try. I can’t control the weather. I can’t control what other people do. I can’t control the bad things that happen to those I love. I can’t control viral pandemics. When we realise that we cannot control every circumstance, sometimes we start to fear. One Greek dictionary defines fear this way: “A state of severe distress, aroused by intense concern for impending pain or danger.” Fear can hit us when we think about bad things happening, even if they haven’t happened yet or will never happen.
The Psalmist says we will not fear even if the world falls apart. He pictures earthquakes, floods, and cataclysmic natural disasters—things we can’t control. When such things happen, we don’t need to fear or go into a state of severe distress. We don’t need to panic.
But how can we keep calm? Psalm 46:2 begins with therefore, which points back to our God who is for us. In verse 1, we are reminded that He is our place of refuge, our source of strength, and our ever-present help. God is our fortress, our power, and our always-present Helper. He’s not going anywhere, and He is always with us. Therefore, we don’t have to let fear overwhelm us and paralyse us.
When it looks like the world is falling apart, God’s powerful presence remains like an unshakable rock. He is our safe stronghold. He is the One who will get us through. I pray God will do some great things in response to our crisis.
Pray:
Lord, we’re thankful that You are on Your throne. You’re in control. And You’re always with us no matter what happens. Thank You for listening to our every worry and concern. We don’t have to give in to fear. Thank You for being our mighty fortress! Amen.
