1. When Jesus mentioned the things that He had spoken, He was referring to His instructions recorded in John 14-16. 2. Jesus said these things to His apostles to comfort their troubled hearts. 3. The Lord informed the apostles that they would have tribulation in the world. 4. They could "be of good cheer" -- in the Lord they could have peace. 5. This brings us to theme of our lesson -- "in Christ we can have peace." 6. We are concentrating on the message presented in Psalm 46. 7. This Psalm contains instructions that will help us to have peace when we face tribulation. Discussion: I. LET US FIRST POINT OUT THE THEME OF PSALM 46: "GOD IS OUR REFUGE"
A. This point is made 3 times in this Psalm -- at the beginning (vs.1a), in the middle (vs.7b), and at the conclusion (vs.11b). B. This statement is made numerous times throughout the Psalms (ex: 9:9; 57:1). C. During times of tribulation we need refuge so we can have peace, and Psalm 46 emphasizes the fact that "God is our refuge." D. In addition to identifying God as our refuge, Psalm 46 identifies Him as our "strength" (vs.1b) and "a very present help in trouble" (vs.1c). II. THE FACT THAT "GOD IS OUR REFUGE" WILL HELP US OVERCOME "FEAR" (vs.2a)
A. Natural events such as those listed in vs.2b-3 can cause us to fear; however, God provides: 1. peace (vs.4) 2. security (vs.5). B. The activities of ungodly men listed in vs.6a can cause us to fear; however, God is still in control (vs.6b, 9). III. WE MUST NOT LOSE SIGHT OF THE FACT THAT "GOD IS OUR REFUGE" DURING TIMES OF "TRIBULATION"
A. Tribulation can cause us to fear and to overlook the refuge that God provides. B. We especially need to take advantage of the blessings that God provides during times of tribulation. C. During times of tribulation, let us: 1. remember that "the Lord of hosts is with us" (vs.7a, 11a; Hebrews 13:5b) 2. "behold the works of the Lord" (vs.8) 3. "be still" and know God (vs.10a) 4. exalt God (vs.10b). D. When tribulation arises, let us approach the Lord for peace (Matthew 11:28-30). E. He will provide mercy and grace (Hebrews 4:16). Conclusion:
1. We have studied Psalm 46 to help us understand and appreciate the Lord's statement in John 16:33 -- "in Him we can have peace." 2. As we close, let us be reminded of how we get into Christ to have the peace that He provides (Galatians 3:26-29).
