When you are in trouble God will be your refuge (Psalm 46:1-3). Even though calamities or crises strike, we do not have to fear. Knowing that God is our deliver and rescuer eases and cheers our souls. We can keep gentle in the storm because God is our refuge and strength.
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Psalm 46:1-3 NKJV
Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
Though its waters roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with its swelling.
Here we are at the beginning of fall. Where trees, flowers, and we move a little differently. Rolling sweetly into new beginnings, new days, and ways. The dancing leaves swirl, gently floating down. Oh, if only the other changes in the world would gently float down. Instead of smacking suddenly leaving hearts broken and frayed.
How do we keep calm, enjoying all that autumn promises when difficult things slam? Is it possible to keep the chaos out of the gentle? Which brings me to this question? How do we find the peace of God in the storm?
God is our refuge & strength in the storm –
When reading Psalm 46 vs. 1-3, I was warmed, feeling the comfort of God’s promise wash over me. God is our refuge and strength. And He is forever and above all trouble. Here is our God. We know that we are safe in His arms. He is our Redeemer. Only God can give us the supernatural strength to withstand hardships.
Discovering solitude –
The other day I felt a little cranky and anxious and knew walking would do me well. On the walking path surrounded by woods with shades of orange popping, I inhaled the fresh air. Hearing leaves and twigs crunch under my tennis shoes. As I turned the corner, the path opened to the pond. The brilliant blue sky overwhelmed me. Sun light rays shooting through trees, the water gently rippling. At this moment, God reminded me how much He loves me on this lovely fall day. Then an older man in his golf cart stopped to chat. His sizeable black poodle jumped off and ran up to lick my hand. He said, “solitude. Here you are out walking in solitude. The world is going on, but here we are in solitude.” I smiled and agreed. “It’s just beautiful.” Then the dog ran off, and the man drove on.
I found solitude here in God’s beauty. And it took a stranger and a black poodle to remind me to relish these precious moments of life. Yes, there were still nearby cars whizzing, an airplane buzzing, and a couple of golfers across the way. But I have peace in the arms of my Savior.
When we know that Jesus has already overcome the world, we have peace even when we have tribulation.
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
John16:33 NIV
May this autumn be full of spectacular orange and wine-colored leaves, pumpkins, and coziness. There is relief from our dear heavenly Father in our suffering. Let His arms comfort you today and hold you close because He sees you, knows your name, is with you, and is not going anywhere. You are safe and protected. You are with God.
Love,
Deborah
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I’m so thankful He is our refuge and strength, Deborah! Peaceful walks delighting in Him, there are no words to capture how much it ministers to the depths of our heart.
Lisa, yes, I am thankful too. Oh, how awful life would be without God’s love for us. I love peaceful walks delighting in Him.
This was so calming, Deborah. The essence of peace really came through. So glad God is our refuge..
Hi Dee, thank you so much. I found the experience calming and God our wonderful Father knew exactly what I needed.?
I’m so thankful for God’s peace and presence no matter what is going on.
Hi Barbara, this gift of God blesses us. I am so thankful too?
I love that God is my refuge and He is my protector. I have to keep reminding myself that He has already gone up ahead and nothing surprises Him. Thank you for your sweet encouragement this morning. Beautiful post as always … ???
Donna, you are welcome, and so happy it encourages you. I have to remind myself, too, that He already has everything taken care of. We are blessed for our Protector.
I love finding these moments with God in His creation all the time but especially when life is overwhelming.??
Traci, I know you need God’s comfort right now the passing of your Grandmother. May God bring you much needed peace and love.
Deborah, yes, I hear God best in the quiet, in the solitude. He’s always inviting us to something deeper, more sacred. Thank you for your wise reflections …
Linda, we are blessed to be invited to in to sacred moments with God. Thank you for visiting?
Hi Deborah,
I love the story you’ve shared about the man and his poodle. What a wonderful encounter!
John 16:33 may be one of my new favorite verses. Thanks for the encouragement.
Blessings,
Tammy
Tammy, you are welcome. So happy it encourages you. And yes, it was a nice encounter. John 16:33 brings me so much hope.?
Debbie, this message is such a marvelous picturesque post. I’m just so in awe of His love for us. So wonderfully spoken sweet friend.
Visiting today from G&T
Paula, thank you visiting and blessing me today with with you kind words. We are so blessed that He loves us so much.
“When we know that Jesus has already overcome the world, we have peace even when we have tribulation.” May I always remember this encouraging and comforting truth!
Joanne, this encouraging truth keeps me sane in all the crazy! God is our refuge.
He is definitely my refuge, so wonderful to walk in his peace.
Yes, we are blessed by God’s love! It is almost to process how much He cares for us. Thank you for visiting.