Do you sometimes feel like this world is being shaken to pieces? Do the institutions and values that were always so stable and dependable seem like they are falling into ruins? If so, this is a psalm that will provide great comfort. This psalm actually counsels us to relax as God has everything covered. There is no need for us to start worrying until God does. (And that just isn’t going to happen!)
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To the choirmaster. Of the Sons of Korah. According to Alamot. A Song.
1-3 God is our refuge and strength, a help in trouble, readily found. 2 Therefore we will not fear when the earth changes, though the mountains shift into the heart of the sea. 3 Its waters roar and foam; the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah
עצרה = “Ezra”
4-7 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. 5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be shifted; God will help her when morning dawns. 6 The nations rage, the kingdoms shift; He utters His voice, the earth melts. 7 Adonai of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our high tower. Selah
משגב (mis’gav) = “high tower/high fortress”
8-11 Go and behold the wonders of Adonai, how He has brought desolations on the earth. 9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; He burns the chariots with fire. 10 “Relax, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” 11 Adonai of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our high tower. Selah
חזה (chazah) = “behold with the spirit/mind”
רפה (raphah) = “relax, let go”