Psalm 46

The psalmist magnified the Lord as His peoples' secure defense. Just as Zion was secure because God dwelt there, so His people were safe because He resided among them.

"To Alamoth"in the title probably means female voices were to sing this psalm since the Hebrew word alamotmeans "maidens."

 1. God's defense of His people 46:1-3

God's people find safety and courage when they trust in Him. He is a shelter from danger and a source of strength for them.¹⁰³Consequently they need not fear even though they face many calamities. The figure of the mountains sliding into the sea pictures a terrible disaster as do those of the storm tossed sea and the earthquake.

 2. God's presence in Zion 46:4-7

46:4-5 God's presence in Jerusalem was similar to that of a refreshing life-giving river rather than the raging sea (v. 3; cf. Isa. 8:6; 33:21). Old Jerusalem, of course, had no literal river flowing through it (cf. Rev. 22:1-2). Because God abode in the city, it enjoyed great security. As time passed, however, God left the city because His people forsook Him (Ezek. 8; 10).

46:6-7 When nations lifted themselves up in opposition to God and Israel, the Lord overthrew them (cf. Ps. 2:1-2). His mighty word even caused the earth to melt, a figurative description of the awesome power of God (cf. Gen. l). Therefore the God who preserved Jacob would also protect the Israelites. He controls the unseen armies of heaven. He is a Person to whom His people can flee for refuge when enemies attack.

 3. God's exaltation in the earth 46:8-11

46:8-9 The psalmist invited the people to come with him in their minds' eyes and view the Lord's deliverances of His people. His army had destroyed Israel's enemies many times.

46:10-11 The writer presented God Himself calling His people to rest their confidence in Him. Then he concluded by repeating his own expression of trust (v. 7).

The Lord's presence indwelling His own people should inspire trust and confidence. No external calamity or hostile adversary can overthrow the place where the Lord of Armies resides. Today the Lord does not reside in a tabernacle building but in His people.¹⁰⁴