ODJ: nothing in the water

June 3, 2014 

READ: Psalm 46:1-11 

God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear (vv.1-2).

In the 2012 issue of American magazine Foreign Policy, columnist Micah Zenko wrote an article in an attempt to allay people’s fears of shark attacks. Zenko concluded that because of the movie Jaws, millions of people in America unnecessarily panic when they hear that a shark might be near the area where they’re swimming.

According to Zenko’s research, however, less than one American dies each year from a shark attack. The article also contained a list of things in America that are more likely to cause a person to die. The author concluded the article with a reminder that there’s no need to shy away from the ocean: “Get off the couch and stop watching shark specials. Better yet, go for a swim.”

Psalm 46 was written to celebrate the power of God, to allay people’s fears and to encourage confidence in the Lord. It begins with the declaration that God is a refuge for His people—a shelter from danger—whose power gives them strength (v.1). The psalm proclaims the security of God’s people even if the earth breaks up, the hills move violently and the depths of the seas totter, roar and foam (v.2).

And because God is His people’s security and stability, they shouldn’t fear even if chaos threatens to engulf them (v.6). For no matter what happens, those who trust in the Lord are safe (v.7).

Just as Jaws added to the fear of sharks, the trials of life can create fear in our hearts. But we worship and serve a God who makes order out of chaos. He says, “Be still, and know that I am God!” (v.10).

Sometimes it’s in the difficult situations of life where we find deeper faith and clearly experience God’s profound presence. —Marvin Williams
Jonah 1:1-2:10 ‹365-day plan

MORE
Read Psalm 27:1-14 and see why David didn’t fear but could express complete confidence in God. 
NEXT
What causes you to fear? When have you experienced God as your place of safety and the One who makes you strong? Why can you trust Him today?