“Confidence in the Midst of a Crisis”

 

Psalm 46

Life is full of crises, whether it’s grief, illness, financial struggles, or broken relationships. How we respond in such times, reveals where our confidence truly lies. Psalm 46 reminds us that while crises are expected, our response as believers should be rooted in trust in God. Psalm 46 offers three key truths to hold onto when the storms of life rage: God is our Protector, our Provider, and our Manifested Presence in the midst of crisis.

1. He is Still God: Our Protector (Psalm 46:1-3)

The psalm opens with a powerful affirmation: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” These words offer deep assurance. God is not just a distant deity; He is a refuge—a safe place we can run to in times of danger.  I've had difficult times in my life. Some of these storms are personal, others are professional, and within my family, but the majority are spiritual in nature. Many of these storms sometimes seem unsolvable. At other times, doubt took over my thoughts.

• But I thank God that during these situations, I found refuge. I thank God that during these situations, I found shelter in my Lord. Psalm 91 says: "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High will abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, 'You are my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'" God tells us: in the midst of crisis, I have a special place for you, a secret place, and when things don't go well, come running to my refuge, I will protect you. And yet, despite moments of doubt and despair, God has proven to be a place of refuge.

We don’t need to run away or be overwhelmed by fear; we can run to Him. Even when everything around us feels unstable—when the earth shakes, and the mountains fall—God remains unmoved. As Martin Luther once declared in his hymn A Mighty Fortress Is Our God, we are reminded that God’s protection is stronger than any threat or spiritual attack.

But God is not only a refuge; He is also our strength. He not only shelters us but empowers us. He gives us the strength to stand and even praise His name in the middle of hardship. Additionally, the phrase “a very present help” underscores that God's assistance is immediate and constant. When trouble comes, we are never alone—God is with us, ready to help without delay.

Reflection: Are you running from your crisis, or are you running to God, your refuge?

2. He is Still God: Our Provider (Psalm 46:4-7)

The images shift from turmoil to tranquility: “There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God.”  The psalmist paints a serene picture: “There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God.” That river symbolizes God’s provision—His Spirit flowing in and through us, meeting our every need.

Jesus echoed this in John 4:14, saying that those who drink of His water will never thirst again. In crisis, we must draw deeply from this spiritual well, connecting with the Holy Spirit and trusting God to supply our emotional, spiritual, and practical needs.

In crisis, we must stay connected to that fountain. Instead of looking to external sources for peace or strength, we draw from the Spirit of God dwelling in us. Tapping into the Holy Spirit means trusting that God will meet our needs—spiritually, emotionally, and even physically—when we lean on Him. He is not only the one who protects us from the storm; He is also the one who sustains us through it.

Reflection: Are you staying connected to the living water of the Holy Spirit during your time of need?

3. He is Still God: Our God Manifested (Psalm 46:8-11)

The final portion of Psalm 46 calls us to open our eyes and recognize how God has shown Himself in our past crises. “Come and see the works of the Lord.” Reflecting on God’s past faithfulness fuels our current faith. When we remember the times God carried us through impossible situations, we find strength for today's battles.

We’re encouraged to reflect on how He’s guided us through “dangers seen and unseen,” and how those memories can rejuvenate our weary souls. Like Paul, we can declare, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” because we know the same God who helped us before is still with us now.

But the passage ends with a command: “Be still and know that I am God.” This is not passive resignation, but active trust. “Be still” means to relax, to take your hands off the situation, and let God do what only He can do. It’s a call to surrender, not to inactivity. In stillness, we acknowledge His sovereignty, trust His timing, and watch Him work.

Reflection: What past victories can you remember today that will strengthen your faith for what you’re facing now?

Conclusion

Crises are decisive moments that shape our future. But in every storm, Psalm 46 reminds us that God remains God, unchanging, sovereign, and faithful. He is our refuge, our strength, our provider, and the one who reveals Himself in our trials. In the face of trouble, we don’t panic or run—we run to God. We reflect on His power, rest in His presence, and trust in His provision. So, when the next crisis comes, don’t forget: He is still God. Be still and know it.