Confidence in the Midst of Distress

Read ~Psalm 46:1-11


Oftentimes, we use the word “stress” to describe the pressure we are feeling. It can come from something as simple as traffic or from more complex situations or underlying issues, such as insecurity. Stress becomes distress when it creates deep emotional and mental anxiety. Unfortunately, in today’s world, living with a fairly constant level of such tension is not unusual.

I remember 1944 being a year of tremendous turmoil in our country because of World War II. Many people would watch the evening news and hear reports of bloodshed in various locations. Those with loved ones overseas listened anxiously.

I can’t recall the name of my social studies teacher that year, but I have never forgotten something she said. One day, after tearfully announcing that we would take a break from the normal routine, she pulled out a Bible and read Psalm 46. The woman explained that her husband’s division had been mentioned on the news the previous night. Though fearful, she found comfort in the Scriptures.

Since then, I turn to that Psalm when I am troubled or afraid. We all face uncertain times when, in our humanness, we feel alone and scared. Yet there is confidence to gain in Jesus.

"1) God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2) Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;  3) Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.  4) There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High.  5) God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early.  6) The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved: he uttered his voice, the earth melted.   7) The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.  8) Come, behold the works of the LORD, what desolations he hath made in the earth.  9) He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire.  10) Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.  11)The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah."

Today’s verse holds the key to releasing stress and finding peace. What is causing you mental anguish? Stop striving, and rest in our loving, almighty God. He wants you to trust Him, lean on Him, and allow Him to carry the burden for you. His desire is for His children to be relieved of worry.

[via Paastor Charles Stanley]

Be Blessed!

Dawn