September 25, 2025

STOP AND REMEMBER

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge! … The nations are in chaos, and their kingdoms crumble! God’s voice thunders, and the earth melts! The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress. … He causes wars to end throughout the earth. He breaks the bow and snaps the spear; he burns the shields with fire. ‘Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.’ The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress.”

Psalm 46:1-3, 6-11 NLT

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TODAY’S THOUGHT

Psalm 46 is sometimes called the “Psalm of Trouble.” It was written for real life—when the world shakes, nations rage, and we find ourselves overwhelmed by fear, confusion, or anxiety.

If you’ve never faced a problem, you can skip this passage. But for the rest of us who live in the real world, this psalm is a lifeline.

1. God is Our Refuge

When trouble comes, where do you run? Some people run from God, turning to alcohol, drugs, or endless distractions to numb the pain. Others bury themselves in busyness or try to escape reality.

But the psalmist reminds us: “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.” He is the safe place we can run to, the One who is always present and never abandons us. Even if earthly parents fail, even if friends walk away, God’s Spirit will never leave us nor forsake us.

2. He is the Lord of Heaven’s Armies

This psalm also reminds us that God is not weak or distant. His voice alone can shake the earth. He can end wars with a word. He is the Lord of Heaven’s Armies—the commander of a vast host of angels who stand ready to fight for His people.

When Elisha’s servant was afraid, God opened his eyes to see that the hills were filled with heavenly armies protecting them (2 Kings 6:15–17). Sometimes we, too, need to pray: “Lord, open my eyes that I may see.”

Behind the chaos of our battles, there is a greater reality—God is present, God is powerful, and God is fighting for His children.

3. We Must Be Still and Know

This psalm ends with a command: “Be still, and know that I am God.” In other words, stop striving, stop panicking, and remember who He is. He will be honored in every nation. He will be exalted throughout the world. And He is with you—right now—as your fortress.

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TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, open my eyes to see Your presence in my life. Forgive me for giving in to fear and doubt. Teach me to be still, to trust You in every battle, and to remember that nothing is too hard for You. Amen.

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