First in a series of messages from various local religious leaders from a variety of faiths.

By Joel A. Benson

Selected verses from Psalm 46 tell us that “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth should change. God is in the midst of the city. The nations are in an uproar. The Lord of hosts is with us. The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Be still. The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold.”

The Psalms are prayers and songs, they are used in worship and in private devotions, they have guided the people of God for thousands of years and can still guide us now in these chaotic, ever changing and difficult days.

Psalm 46 reminds us, because “God is our refuge and strength and a very present help in trouble, therefore we will not fear.” Because God strengthens us when we are weak, provides a safe place for us, when trouble comes like the coronavirus, our fears need not control or overwhelm us.

“God is in the midst of the city” not a specific place, but a presence with us no matter where we live or who we are.

“The God of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold,” the psalmist repeats this reassuring phrase. God is with us, the one who created and redeemed the whole earth through Christ is with us. God holds onto us when we seemingly have nothing else to hold onto because of the changes and chaos of Coronavirus.

“Be still” the psalmist implores us. Stop chasing after the affirmation and love of others, you are known by name and loved in Christ. “Be still”—stop! Stop being chased by your fears, remember “God is our refuge and strength”

How do I know God’s present help, that God is my stronghold, so that I can be still? I see how we have people at Butler Memorial Hospital working tirelessly to get ready to take care of us if needed.

I see officials preparing for ever changing concerns, doing their best for our best. I see people answering our calls in emergencies of mind, body and spirit. I see Christ at work in the actions of many around me on our behalf.

This psalm can be a guide for us in these chaotic days to stop and know, that God is with us.

Shalom.