Hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, floods, earthquakes, scorching summer heat, drought. These are all some of the natural disasters that have been occurring in various parts of the world recently, and continue to happen even today. Additionally there are wars, as well, in various spots around the world, along with riots and violent crime. Living in an area where any one or more of these events are occurring can be very fearful and stressful, even bringing panic. Is there anywhere one can turn to during such times? Is there any help? Our psalm for today is one that many turn to when the storms of life, both literal and figurative, come upon us.
As our psalm opens, our psalmist, one of the sons of Korah, describes a very severe natural disaster (vs. 1-3). It was quite possibly a devastating earthquake, as he describes mountains shaking and falling into the ocean, causing a likely tsunami. When something like this, or any other natural disasters, such as hurricanes, wildfires, etc. happen, who do we look to for help, reassurance and relief? Can the government help? What about charity organizations? All too often those are woefully inadequate or even nonexistent. How about when wars, riots, and violent crimes occur? The psalmist describes wars and violence, with the weapons of his day, such as bows, spears, and chariots (vs. 9). Is there reliable help then?
Our psalmist gives us an answer, really the only answer of where to get help during disasters, and that is the Lord God (vs. 1, 10-11). Yahweh is adequate to face any threat we may have from nature, from other nations, or violent criminals we face. He will protect His people from these problems that come against us. God is our very present help for us. He is right there, right now. We don’t have to wait to call upon Him. Human help may not be available to call upon at all times, especially when there may be numerous disasters or problems for them to deal with. The help we seek from others may be inadequate with what assistance they can offer. However Yahweh is a present help and refuge, always there for us, no matter what the need.
Even if the world ends, we do not need to fear. God is able to save us. He is our refuge, even in the face of total destruction. God isn’t a temporary retreat. He is our eternal refuge. Yahweh is always there to help, providing us with a safe and sure shelter, security, and peace. His power is complete, and His ultimate victory over any enemy that threatens us is certain. God will not fail to rescue those who love Him.
Sometimes the Lord will allow all of our earthly security to fail us so that we will learn to depend upon Him better. Even then, though, we do not need to fear. We just need to be still and reverentially honor God, His power, and His majesty (vs. 10).
Some of you may remember being afraid of storms as a child. You may have run to a loving parent who took you into their arms and provided a sense of safety and security. In the storms of life, we can come to God and find shelter and protection in His arms, just like a child in a thunderstorm. Jesus did not scold the disciples when they feared the storm on the Sea of Galilee. He stood up and calmed the storm, bringing them peace (Mark 4:35-41). Because of the presence of God, the forces of nature and the nations are no longer a threat to the people of God who dwell with Him.
When chaos threatens, remember to seek God, and we will have peace (Isaiah 26-3-4). We do not need to panic. God is sovereign over everything we will ever face in life. As the hymn writer reminds us, “Be still my soul, the Lord is on thy side.”
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