We Will Not Fear

" God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea." Psalm 46:1,2 (NKJV)

Living near one of the most majestic mountains of the Cascade range, I am constantly reminded of the might and presence of our Creator God.  Rounding a corner as I drove to work one day, I was met by another breathtaking view of Mount Hood.  As it towered directly in front of me, its beauty and steadfast presence brought these verses to mind: "We will not fear. . .though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea."

My imagination began to run wild.  What if something as sure and steadfast as Mount Hood did uproot and was suddenly hurled into the Pacific Ocean? A mountain dropped in the sea would cause an alarm greater than its splash. Fear would be the most natural result.

If that were to happen, what would we do?  Scripture says, "We will not fear."  If we will not fear, even if the most terrifying "natural disaster" were to occur, will we fear in financial uncertainty, political upheaval, an unknown future, or a scary diagnosis?

"We will not fear" is not a mantra to be recited continuously until we convince ourselves to do what we say. It is the response of faith in the character of our steadfast God – a God more steadfast than the highest mountains and more present than our overwhelming troubles.  We will not fear, because "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."

Prayer: Father, Thank You for being our refuge and strength. Thank You for Your abiding presence. Grant us the faith to trust You with our uncertainties. Grant us the faith that swallows fear, for Your Name's sake. Amen.