#psalm 46:1-3

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

God, the Fortress

1 GOD is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2 Thou hast been with us always; therefore will we not fear when the earth quakes and mountains are shaken into the heart of the sea, 3 Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the force thereof. — Psalm 46:1-3 | Lamsa Bible (LAMB) Holy Bible From The Ancient Eastern Texts: Aramaic Of The Peshitta by George M. Lamsa (1933) Cross References: Deuteronomy 33:27; 2 Samuel 22:31; Psalm 9:9; Psalm 18:2; Psalm 27:1; Proverbs 18:10; Isaiah 25:4; Isaiah 43:2; Nahum 1:7; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10; Philippians 4:13; Hebrews 13:6

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What does it mean that God is our refuge and strength and an ever-present help in trouble?

[tears-that-heal]

artist on instagram @quietbeings

[bojackson54]

Trouble in This World is Inevitable. Refuge, However, is Optional

As you read this, there is an abundance of trouble in this fallen world. Ukraine and Russia are still at war. So are Israel and Hamas. Genocide is taking place in several countries, such as the persecution of the Rohingya in Myanmar and the attacks on the Nuer people in South Sudan. There are refugees, people afflicted by drug use, there is human trafficking. There are devastating natural…

[granonine]

Our Refuge and Strength!

Psalm 46:1-3. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah. Because I have an inquiring mind, I did some research this morning before starting to…

[disneynerdpumpkin]

Scriptures for if you're struggling with anxiety

Psalm 94:19"When anxiety is great within us, God's consolation brings us joy."

John 16:32"I am not alone, for my Father is with me."

Philippians 4:6-7“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus."

Psalm 46:10"Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the earth!"

2 Timothy 1:7"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."

1 Peter 5:7"We should cast all anxiety on God, because He cares for us."

Psalm 42:5"Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my savior and my God."

[kmac4him1st]

Regifted

[martyschoenleber]

Mary's Song and the Tapestry of Redemption

Mary’s Song (Luke 1:46–55) When we look at a tapestry, we often forget that it began with a single thread. I tell you, there is a tapestry being woven in the pages of Scripture. It began with a single thread, but God, the weaver of the tapestry is skillfully weaving every thread together to complete the tapestry of His redemption. The first thread was revealed in the selection of Abraham as the…

[re4med]

Daily Prayer for the Lord's Day: November 3, 2024

Prayer: Grant almighty God that your redeemed people would meditate deeply on your goodness and grace, knowing that we can do no good thing without you. Grant, we beg of you to remind us of your infinite love that never had a beginning and will never have an end. Please, we beg of you, help us to behold your beauty and majesty, though we are creatures of dust and wander from your commandments…

[focr]

But in these last days, he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, ~ Hebrews 1:2-3

ll things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. ~ John 1:3

I will tell of the decree: The Lord said to me, “You are my Son; today I have begotten you. ~ Psalm 2:7

My steadfast love I will keep for him forever, and my covenant will stand firm for him. ~ Psalm 89:28

And again, when he brings the firstborn into the world, he says, “Let all God's angels worship him. ~ Hebrews 1:6

For to us a child is born,    to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. ~ Isaiah 9:6

[thatgentlewife]

Living a Slow and Purposeful Life as a Christian 🍲✨☕️🌷

In today’s world, we are often told to do more, achieve more, and be more. Social media can amplify this pressure, showing us glimpses of others’ seemingly perfect lives, accomplishments, and busyness. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking we’re falling behind or not doing enough. But as Christians, we’re called to live differently. Our purpose isn’t found in worldly achievements but in living a life that glorifies God and reflects His peace.

Here are some ways to live a slower, more purposeful life centered on Christ:

1. Prioritize Time with God

Start and end your day with God. Spend unhurried time reading the Bible, praying, and meditating on His Word. This sets the tone for a day that’s focused on Him rather than your to-do list. Jesus Himself often withdrew to quiet places to pray (Luke 5:16).

Tip: Use a physical Bible instead of a Bible app to avoid distractions from notifications.

2. Focus on Relationships, Not Tasks

It’s easy to get caught up in rushing through our days, but Jesus teaches us to prioritize people over productivity. He stopped to heal, listen, and minister to others, even when He was busy. Make time to truly connect with others—family, friends, coworkers—and show them Christ’s love.

Tip: Schedule margin into your day so you have time to respond to others without feeling overwhelmed.

3. Simplify Your Life

Examine your commitments and let go of activities or responsibilities that don’t align with your God-given purpose. Overcommitting often leads to stress and distracts from what truly matters.

Tip: Ask yourself, Does this glorify God or bring me closer to Him? If not, it might be time to let it go.

4. Be Intentional with Social Media

Social media can create a false sense of urgency and comparison, making us feel like we’re behind in life. Limit your time online and follow accounts that inspire your faith, not your insecurities.

Tip: Set specific times for social media use and consider a day of fasting from it each week to refocus on God.

5. Embrace Rest as a Gift from God

God created us to rest. He rested on the seventh day (Genesis 2:2-3) and commands us to do the same. Rest isn’t laziness; it’s obedience and trust that God is in control. Take time to slow down, enjoy creation, and recharge.

Tip: Create a restful Sabbath routine that includes worship, prayer, and activities that refresh your soul.

6. Live in the Present Moment

Jesus told us not to worry about tomorrow because each day has enough trouble of its own (Matthew 6:34). When we rush through life, we miss the beauty of the present. Ask God to help you be fully present, whether you’re spending time with loved ones or doing mundane tasks.

Tip: Practice gratitude by pausing throughout the day to thank God for His blessings.

7. Let Go of Perfectionism

We often rush because we’re striving for perfection or trying to meet unrealistic expectations. Remember that your worth comes from Christ, not your accomplishments. Rest in His grace and allow yourself to slow down.

Tip: Replace thoughts of “I should be doing more” with the truth: God’s grace is sufficient for me (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Final Thought

Living a slow and purposeful life as a Christian isn’t about doing less; it’s about doing what matters most. When we make God the center of everything we do, we can step off the treadmill of busyness and embrace the abundant life He offers. Let go of the rush, and let His peace guide your steps.

“Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).

With love,

Thatgentlewife

[girlbloggercher]

how to read the Bible

this is in order!

1. John

2. Mark

3. Matthew

4. Luke

5. Genesis

6. Exodus

7. Leviticus

8. Numbers

9. Dueteronomy

10. Romans

11. Galatians

12. Colossians

13. Proverbs

14. Ecclesiastes

15. Job

16. 1 Peter

17. 1 Corinthians

18. 2 Corinthians

19. Ephesians

20. Philippians

21. 1 Thessalonians

22. 2 Thessalonians

23. 1 Timothy

24. 2 Timothy

25. James

26. 2 Peter

27. 1 John

28. 2 John

29. 3 John

30. Jude

31. Psalms

32. Joshua

33. Judges

34. 1 Samuel

35. 2 Samuel

36. 1 Kings

37. 2 Kings

38. 1 Chronicles

39. 2 Chronicles

40. Ezra

41. Nehemiah

42. Jeremiah

43. Lamentations

44. Ezekiel

45. Joel

46. Amos

47. Obadiah

48. Nahum

49. Habakkuk

50. Zephaniah

51. Haggai

52. Zechariah

53. Malachi

54. Micah

55. Hosea

56. Luke

57. Esther

58. Jonah

59. Song of Solomon

60. Acts

61. Titus

62. Philemon

63. Hebrew

64. Isaiah

65. Daniel

66. Revelation

[eesirachs]

Anon who asked about the suicides here. Unfortunately I'll need the specific locations/texts (of at least two, I think). It's not that I don't believe in you!! I'm just trying to show it to someone

of course-

king saul kills himself via the sword in 1 sam 31. i have posted often about how god sees this death and never gets over it, and that is at least partly why he later incarnates as a non-roman (roman citizens would die by the sword: i think god feared dying as saul did)

sign-acts as self harm: see ezekiel's self-harm sign-acts: isolation in ezek 3:31; immobilization ezek 4:4-8; eating over excrement ezek 4:9; see also jeremiah's self-harm sign-acts: exposure to elements jer 13; auto-yoking in jer 27

elijah praying to die: 1 kngs 19:4; knowing elisha will also end up praying to die: ibid v. 20 ("what have i done to you!?")

tobit praying to die: tobit 3 (sarah also has a prayer for death here)

moses praying to die: numb 11:13

jonah prays to die and then attempts suicide via the elements: jonah 4

psalmist 88 also prays to die and, in fact, enacts a semiotic death (writing from the grave). this is one of two psalms that does not end in resolution with god

samuel asking to be put to rest after already dying: 1 sam 28

many close to god also express, without intention to enact and without real plea, their wanting-to-die: see job (all of it), jeremiah (jer 20), and rebekah (gen 27:46)

there are many more than what my post listed. almost every prophetic sign act is self-harm. and, in the second testament, you have (very famously) the apostle paul saying he struggles with suicidal ideation, as well as the suicide of judas, which lacks any affective response precisely because none suffice. keep in mind that in the ancient world, self harm and auto-death looked like, and meant, very different things than they do today. keep also in mind that in each pericope here, god shares in the wanting-to-die, never answering the plea or condoning or condemning, but holding gently unto the pain

[influencingforjohn]

Bible verses for protection

1. "The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." (Psalm 121:7-8)

2. "You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance." (Psalm 32:7)

3. "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1)

4. "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe." (Proverbs 18:10)

5. "Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be frightened, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41:10)

6. "You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday." (Psalm 91:5-6)

7. "The Lord will protect you from all evil; he will keep your soul safe." (Psalm 121:7)

8. "Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken." (Psalm 55:22)

9. "The Lord is my rock, my refuge and my savior—my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge." (Psalm 18:2)

10. "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:7)

Remember, God's protection is not limited to these verses, and His love and care for you are infinite. May these scriptures bring you comfort and peace!

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

The Lord Is My Shepherd A Psalm of David.

1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. 3 He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. — Psalm 23 | English Standard Version (ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Cross References: Deuteronomy 20:1; 2 Samuel 22:19; Psalm 5:8; Psalm 16:5; Psalm 19:7; Psalm 25:7; Psalm 25:10; Psalm 36:8; Luke 7:46; John 10:11; Philippians 4:19; Revelation 7:17

Audio Bible Psalm 23 (ESV)

Notes: This psalm is a hymn that expresses a person's relationship with God, and how God's presence and guidance can provide comfort and strength.

[awideplace]

Psalm 46:1-3

[walkswithmyfather]

“✨ Answered prayer: exuberant Praise”

“I give you thanks, O LORD, with my whole heart.” —Psalm 138:1 (ESV)

“When David gave thanks, he used everything in him: “I give You thanks, O LORD, with my whole heart” (Psalm 138:1). David’s life exemplified exuberant praise and worship of the LORD.

Psalm 138 gives us a glimpse into why David was so exuberant about the LORD. He excitedly praised God because “On the day I called, You answered me; my strength of soul You increased” (138:3). David’s fellowship with God was so intimate, God knew that the moment He answered David’s prayer, David would give Him praise.

The first Christmas was a time of many answered prayers. Just imagine how many people—Simeon, Zechariah, Anna, Elizabeth, Mary, and countless others—had prayed for the coming of the Messiah, saying “next year in Jerusalem,” “maybe this year will be the year?” Now their prayers were answered.

And, just like David in Psalm 138, they gave exuberant praise to God. It was almost beyond description as Mary recited her Magnificat (Luke 1:46–56), Zechariah prophesied (1:67–79), Simeon gave his praise (2:29–32), and the very angels cried out saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased!” (2:14). Not only was God faithful but, imagine, “God was pleased!”

The people had been praying for this very event for thousands of years. Wonder, amazement, and awe are words that cannot fully express the coming of the Messiah. But if we didn’t try to use words to describe it, the very rocks would cry out (19:40).

This Christmas, what answers to prayer have you had that lead you to praise God with exuberance the way David did in Psalm 138? Not only did God keep His word in the first coming, but He is coming again to take us to heaven where there will be no more tears, pain, sickness, cancer, or depression, and we will see our loved ones again.

To quote a hymn from the past, “When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be. When we all see Jesus, we’ll sing and shout the victory.”

—Dr. Rodney H. Orr (Dallas Theological Seminary)

From: “The Spiritual Encourager” (FB)