Psalm 46:1 - Confidence in God

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."

This was the text used recently in a Bible study meeting that I did in the Estonian language.  The whole chapter is a reflection of this first statement, and it shows the psalmist's faith and trust in God.  We need to ask ourselves whether or not we have that same confidence. The psalmist is convinced that regardless of circumstances, God is sufficient.  Jesus satisfies, and every believer is to be satisfied with Him.

The chapter is divided into three parts, which refer to the existence of God and some of his attributes: God is a shelter, a strength, the most High, the Lord of hosts, with his own, the God of Jacob.  As well, each division of the chapter concludes with the word Selah.  The word Selah is found elsewhere in the Book of Psalms.  The use of the word directs the reader to reflect upon the verses previously written.  Selah means that we not only read the text, but also meditate upon it.  I have heard that the word Selah is given as a pause to a part of the singing or recital of a particular psalm.  The time of pause in a psalm is given as a time of reflection.  

Psalm 46 when taken in its three parts ought to help us in various ways:
1. That we see the holiness of God's nature and a confidence in his attributes
2. That we trust in him more because of the written word that describes his being
3. That the faith of the psalmist encourages and challenges our relationship with the Lord
4. That our prayer life is not a fruitless vain repetition of words
5. That a close relationship or communion with God is maintained
6. That our zeal for the truth and the name of the Lord will not waiver
7. That time is made to reflect upon what God has done in our lives and the lives of others

Definitely more could be written on this text, but one thing is for sure, we have a great God who deserves our praise.