Psinging through Psummer
Psalm 46
It is the psalm that inspired Martin Luther to write the famous hymn, “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.” If it meant enough to Luther to write a hymn about it, then perhaps we will find it important for our lives as well. Daily Prayer: Lord, teach me to trust in your power and protection in the midst of this crazy world. Amen.
Monday, July 27
Read Psalm 46. Psalms work in the realm of deep inner realities. What emotions rise when you read vs. 1-3? How does that change when you read vs. 4-7 and vs. 8-11? What does “stillness” look like for you today?
Tuesday, July 28
After reviewing Psalm 46, read Deuteronomy 4:1-14. In verse Deut. 4:7, Moses speaks of a God who is close and responsive. Search your heart for how you see God. Do you consider God to be close? Is he responsive? Pray today that you may see God as he is, “a very present help in trouble.”
Wednesday, July 29
After reviewing Psalm 46, read Matthew 8:23-27. What natural disasters do you fear most? Do you fear natural disasters more than manmade afflictions? Why or why not? Why would Jesus be justified in pointing out his disciple’s lack of faith? Who is with us through the storms of life?
Thursday, July 30
After reviewing Psalm 46, read Genesis 2:1-14. What is the symbolic significance that a river flowed out of the paradise of Eden? In our psalm, the river is mentioned right after the convulsing creation. What is it about this river that “makes glad the city of God?”
Friday, July 31
After reviewing Psalm 46, read Isaiah 14:3-23. This prophecy is the future words of the remnant of Israel after they have returned from Babylon. Isaiah writes this before Babylon has even taken them captive! What is the ultimate end for the kingdoms of this earth?
Saturday, August 1
After reviewing Psalm 46, read Exodus 14. The Hebrew people were pinned between the Red Sea and charging Egyptian chariots. Moses says, “fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord.” Pray today for the faith to “Be still and know that He is God.”
Bethel Lutheran Church, St. Paul, MN – bethelstpaul.com