1. In Ephesians 4:6 the Bible states that there is "one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." 2. We can know that God exists by observing the objects He has created. 3. However, to know about God's nature, His will, and the blessings He provides, we must turn to His Word that He has revealed. 4. This evening we are concentrating on the message presented in Psalm 46. 5. This psalm emphasizes the fact that "God is our refuge."
Discussion:
I. PSALM 46 STATES 3 TIMES THAT "GOD IS OUR REFUGE"
A. This statement is made; 1. at the beginning (vs.1a) 2. in the middle (vs.7b) 3. at the conclusion (vs.11b). B. This point is made numerous times throughout the Psalms. 1. 9:9 2. 62:7-8 3. 142:4-5 C. In addition to stating that "God is our refuge," Psalm 46 identifies God as: 1. our "strength" (vs.1b) 2. "a very present help in trouble" (vs.1c).
II. THE FACT THAT "GOD IS OUR REFUGE" WILL HELP US OVERCOME "FEAR"
A. Natural calamities such as those listed in vs.2b-3 can cause us to fear. B. However, God provides: 1. peace (vs.4) 2. security (vs.5). C. The ungodly activities of men such as those listed in vs.6a can cause us to fear. D. However, God remains in control (vs.9).
III. WE MUST NOT LOSE SIGHT OF THE FACT THAT "GOD IS OUR REFUGE" DURING TIMES OF "TROUBLE"
A. "Trouble" can lead to "fear," and "fear" can prevent us from taking advantage of the "refuge" that God provides. B. During times of "trouble," let us: 1. remember that "the Lord of hosts [the God of Jacob]" is with us (vs.7, 11) 2. "behold the works of the Lord" (vs.8, Psalm 124) 3. "be still" and know God (vs.10a) 4. always exalt God (vs.10b).
Conclusion:
1. I hope that our study has helped us to grow in our knowledge of the truth concerning the 7 subjects listed in Ephesians 4:4-6. 2. Knowing, believing, and practicing the truth on these subjects is one of the keys to keeping "the unity of the Spirit" (Ephesians 6:3). 3. May we never allow anyone to try to convince us that: a. there is more than "one body" b. there is more than "one Spirit" c. there is more than "one hope" d. there is more than "one Lord" e. there is more than "one faith" f. there is more than "one baptism" g. there is more than "one God and Father."
