Our Theme Passage

Lesson Two • Fill ‘er Up
Devotion 6: Our Theme Passage
Pastor Justin Dean 

 When I was asked to write a devotion focused on the promise found in Psalm 46:1-3, no one knew that this has been a theme verse for our family for the last 18 months. Our emotions have ranged from the loss of a baby nephew, to my wife’s pregnancy with our first child, to major surgeries in our families, to the difficulties of life and finances. This promise has been one we clung to throughout it all.

Psalm 46:1-3 says, “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 its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling.” 

Times of trouble are inevitable in the fallen world that we live in. As much as that reality stings, we can find peace knowing that we have Someone to run to when that trouble comes our way. God is our help, our safe place, and the only One who can give us the strength and stability to weather the storms of life. The word I find most comforting in these verses is “present.” He is not a faraway help, sending us care packages to get us through, but One weathering the storm right beside us. He sees us, is with us, and deeply cares for us. How comforting it is to know that our God, Creator of the universe, Commander of the wind and seas, is available to us as our help in times of great need.

When was a time when you needed a “very present help”? 

How did God show up?

I keep this verse bookmarked in my Bible because when I am too distraught or discouraged to search for a verse, I flip here to be reminded of Who is available to me when I am in need. It is so important that we know and hold to this promise because, in a fallen world where storms are guaranteed, we need to remember where to turn for refuge and strength.

The Lord is available in our time of trouble.