Uncertain, but Unshaken: Anchoring Our Souls in Troubled Times

Uncertain, but Unshaken: Anchoring Our Souls in Troubled Times

Life is full of uncertainties, and at times, it can be overwhelming. When faced with a terrifying diagnosis, emotional or physical pain, depression, loss of a job, or unclear next steps, it can feel like the world is crashing in around us. In these moments, what can we do to steady our souls?

Psalm 46 offers us four soul-steadying reminders that can anchor us in troubled times.

1. God Is Our Protection

The Psalmist begins by declaring that God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). In other words, God is our protection. The imagery of a refuge is that of a place of safety where we can find shelter from danger. When we feel like we are in the midst of chaos, confusion, and uncertainty, we can run to God and find refuge in him.

Furthermore, the Psalmist says that we don't have to fear even if the earth gives way, the mountains are moved, and the waters roar and foam (Psalm 46:2-3). These are all images of extreme chaos and instability, but the Psalmist is saying that even in the midst of such turmoil, we can find safety and security in God.

As Christians, we know that God is our ultimate protection. He is our shield and defender (Psalm 3:3), and he has promised to be with us always, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20). When we face uncertain and troubling times, we can trust in God's protection and find comfort in his presence.

2. God Is Our Strength

The Psalmist also reminds us that God is our strength. He says, "God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns" (Psalm 46:5). The "her" in this verse is likely a reference to Jerusalem, which was under threat from its enemies. The Psalmist is saying that even though Jerusalem is under attack, it will not be moved because God is in the midst of it.

But this verse is also a reminder to us that God is our strength. When we feel weak, helpless, and vulnerable, we can trust in God's strength. He is the one who gives us the power to overcome our fears, doubts, and insecurities. As the Apostle Paul says, "I can do all things through him who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13).

When we face uncertain and troubling times, we can rely on God's strength to carry us through. He is the one who gives us the courage and fortitude to face whatever challenges come our way.

3. God Is Our Peace

The Psalmist goes on to say, "Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!" (Psalm 46:10). This verse is a reminder that God is our peace. When everything around us is chaotic and uncertain, we can be still and know that God is in control.

Jesus also spoke about the peace that he gives to his followers. He said, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid" (John 14:27). The peace that Jesus gives is not like the peace that the world gives. It is a deep and abiding peace that comes from knowing that we are loved by God and that he is in control.

When we face uncertain and troubling times, we can find peace in God. We can be still and know that he is in control, and that his plans for us are good (Jeremiah 29:11).

4. God Is Our Hope

The Psalmist concludes by saying, "The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress" (Psalm 46:11). This verse is a reminder that God is our hope. He is the one who is with us always, and he is the one who will never leave us or forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6).

As Christians, we have a living hope in Jesus Christ. We know that he has conquered sin and death, and that he is coming again to make all things new (Revelation 21:5). We can look forward to the day when there will be no more pain, no more suffering, and no more uncertainty.

When we face uncertain and troubling times, we can find hope in God. We can look to him for strength, comfort, and guidance, knowing that he is with us always.

Conclusion

Life is full of uncertainties, but as Christians, we can be certain of one thing: God is with us. He is our refuge and strength, our protection, our strength, our peace, and our hope. When we face uncertain and troubling times, we can run to him and find safety, security, and comfort in his presence.

As the Apostle Paul says, "We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed" (2 Corinthians 4:8-9). We may be uncertain, but we can be unshaken, knowing that God is with us always.