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The Psalms 07
Introduction: 1. The Psalms deserve our careful attention because: a. they are part of the Old Testament Scriptures (Luke 24:44) b. they "were written for our learning" (Romans 15:4). 2. In this lesson we are concentrating on the information revealed in Psalm 46. 3. 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 at the beginning (vs.1a), in the middle (vs.7b), and at the conclusion (vs.11b). B. This statement is made numerous times through the Psalms (9:9; 57:1; 59:16; 62:7-8; 91:2-3; 94:21-23; 142:4-5). C. Psalm 46 also identifies God 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. The natural calamities listed in vs.2b-3 can cause us to fear; however, God provides: 1. peace (vs.4) 2. security (vs.5). B. The ungodly activities of 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 "TROUBLE" A. Trouble can cause us to fear and to overlook the refuge that God provides. B. We especially need to take advantage of God's characteristics during times of trouble. C. During times of trouble, let us: 1. remember that "the Lord of hosts is with us" (vs.7a, 11a) 2. "behold the works of the Lord" (vs.8) 3. "be still" and know God (vs.10a) 4. exalt God (vs.10b). D. These principles are also revealed in the New Testament. 1. Jesus provided refuge for His disciples when they faced a storm (Mark 4:35-41). 2. Some helpful instructions for us to follow are given in Philippians 4:5-7. | ||