Refuge and Strength

Daily Scripture Threshing for Today, Thursday, August 22, 2025

Today's Text: Psalm 46:1-11

Key Verse: Psalm 46:1 (ESV): "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."

We're often caught in difficult storms, with winds howling and waves crashing around us. Job 5:7 reveals how man is so commonly exposed to various troubles, as if he were born to no other end. Or, di we not, at times feel everything so badly unstable and terrifying? But we have God as our solid rock foundation—a secure fortress in the midst of that chaos. This fortress doesn't just offer shelter; it's unshakable, immovable, and provides a sense of peace that defies the storm. This is the central message of Psalm 46. Even when the world around us seems to be falling apart, God is our ultimate refuge and strength. He is a steadfast fortress in life's most chaotic storms, offering a safe place to run and a source of power when we feel weak.

God is our ultimate source of security. We can seek refuge in Him, knowing that He is a safe hiding place and a fortress of safety during unstable times. When we feel weak or overwhelmed by life's pressures, His unlimited strength becomes our strength. We can rely on His power, not our own, to endure hardships and find the courage to face any challenge. Most importantly, God isn't distant; He is a very present help—always near, attentive to our needs, and ready to aid us.

This psalm calls us to find peace in instability by trusting in God's ultimate power and stability. No doubt, issues of our lives shall stare us in the face, but looking unto Jesus and focusing on His power and presence will always help us overcome fears and anxiety. David acknowledged the "shaking"—the troubles and uncertainties that feel like an unstable foundation. We too must. But then, we must consciously run to our refuge. We must always turn to God, our secure shelter and find comfort in His presence.

Unfortunately, we run to every wrong places, people and plans. We seek money to no end until it becomes mammon in our lives: at which point, our strength is lost in tiring pursuit, and emptiness. But it's never too late. We can take a stand with the Psalmist today and receive new strength. We can rely on God's power, and finally, declare our trust, letting the truth of His unwavering presence become a source of stability and peace in our hearts.

Action Steps: When you feel overwhelmed or afraid, take a moment to quiet your heart. Learn to always acknowledge your troubled times. Never be in denial. But then, intentionally declare God as your refuge. Identify one area where you need strength, and pray specifically for God to empower you. Make it a practice to remember His presence throughout your day.

Quote for the Day: "Earth does tremble and mountains shake, but only hearts that find refuge in God remain at peace." (Simon Olatunji #quotablequote)

Let Us Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for being my refuge and my strength. When trouble comes, help me to run to You and find peace in Your presence. Remind me that You are always with me, and empower me to face my fears with Your courage — in Jesus's most glorious name. Amen.

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Thank you for being part of this journey. For additional reading on today's meditation, read: Psalm 91:2, Isaiah 41:10, and Philippians 4:6-7.

With all my love and prayers,

Rev Simon Wale Olatunji, Ph.D.

Your Darling Bishop (DaBishop)

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