God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

- Psalm 46:1

Martin Luther would repeatedly turn to the Psalms for solace and strength.

Specifically, in 1527, Luther faced one of the greatest difficulties of his life as the Black Plague swept across Germany and much of the European continent.

Luther's son almost died during this time, and his own body was fainting under the mounting pressure.

During this personal conflict, Luther found himself contemplating the promises of Psalm 46, an encouraging psalm of trust in the invincibility of the Lord.

In light of Psalm 46, Luther composed his most famous hymn, ‘A Mighty Fortress’.

Amid darkness and uncertainty, Luther found God to be his ‘bulwark never failing’.

Many times, during this dark and tumultuous period, when terribly discouraged, he would turn to his co-worker, Philipp Melanchthon, and say, ‘Come, Philipp, let us sing the forty-sixth Psalm.’

Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

Luther would often say, “God is always present… but He is very present in our time of trouble.”

My friend, please know, God is present in your situation, no matter the situation. And if you find yourself troubled, God is very present.

“A mighty fortress is our God,
a bulwark never failing;
our helper he, amid the flood
of mortal ills prevailing.
For still our ancient foe
does seek to work us woe;
his craft and power are great,
and armed with cruel hate,
on earth is not his equal.” 

Your prayer today, “God, thank you for never leaving me or forsaking me.”

Press on,
Pastor Harp