Thursday, March 13, 2008

Our Refuge in This Election

God is our refuge and strength. A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea . . .
Psalm 46:1-2

I don't know about you, but I've been a bit distressful over this election. "What in the world are we going to do?" I've been saying. "What's going to happen to our country?" This beloved psalm is just what I needed for these times. Even though I still know that it's possible that our country may be on the verge of judgment for its increasing ungodliness, it comforts me to remember that it is our God Himself who is our hope, not a president.

"He is my refuge and strength." Do not forget the fact that God is our refuge just now, in the immediate present, as truly as when David penned the word. God alone is our all in all. All other refuges are refuges of lies. All other strength is weakness, for power belongeth unto God: but as God is all sufficient, our defence and might are equal to all emergencies. ~ C.H. Spurgeon

A little nugget from The Treasury of David by Spurgeon:

A sure stronghold our God is He,
A timely shield and weapon;
Our help He'll be, and set us free
From every ill can happen.

And were the world with devils filled,
All eager to devour us,
Our souls to fear shall little yield,
They cannot overpower us.

Chew on that, dear friends, between now and November and beyond.

12 comments:

Susan Skitt said...

Yes, Maxine, the name of the Lord is a strong tower, the righteous run into it and are safe.

I've been reading in Daniel and like you said our country is ripe for judgment, but we can take heart that God will be with those who know Him, no matter what! Now that's security!

Thanks for this timely reminder :)

Mimi said...

Thanks for the reminder Maxine...
we just have to remember that God knows who will will the election...and He will use the new president (whoever it might be) to fulfill His purpose for the united States...
We just have to trust in Him because the power belongeth unto God
Blessings,
Mimi

Alan said...

thank you for that perspective -- we need to not get too wrapped up in the minutae of every speech and debate and charge ...

Maxine said...

Susan, Thanks for quoting one of my all time favorite Scriptures! Yes, the Name of the Lord is a strong tower and we can run there and be safe.

Yes, Mimi, isn't a balm to know that ultimately, the Lord our God is behind and in it all. He'll always do right.

Cami, you said a mouthful, sister, and I agree with every bit of what you said. Pray and trust. Amen!

I.I., that is so true. I have stopped listening to every detail of every thing that everybody has to say. We need to keep our eyes and ears open to what each person stands for in the light of God's Word, and then somehow, He'll direct us to do our best to honor Him, even in the voting booth. And then, whatever comes, trust Him to lead this nation.

Mishel said...

Thank you for posting the scripture and quotes. A few months ago I realized I was feeling stressed every time I saw something on the news regarding the election. But then I remembered that God is in control and no matter what happens, He will still be on the throne. : )

sparrow's song said...

Actually, I think our country is already under judgment. As you see the tremendous opening of the gates for immorality through so many avenues, it makes the head spin and the heart sick. My gut feeling is that it's God removing a portion of His restraining grace. Evil rushes in where from the light is removed.

I am grieved at what I see going on in the media. This is probably the most I've watched the news in ages. I stand with you in agreement, that no matter what God is in control.

Maxine said...

Yes, Mishel, our God is and will still be on the throne.

And Sparrow, you got my point so well. I keep thinking about the first chapter of Romans as I see and read the news.

Anonymous said...

Hi Maxine,

Boy, do I agree that we need God's peace during this election season. Thanks for the reminder that God is still in control. Easter blessings...

Vicki said...

That is a powerful verse, Maxine. It settles my heart and reminds me not to fear. I think of His mighty working power to save to the uttermost and to preserve His remmant.

This election has worked me over to the point I have to limit my news intake:-)

You said something powerful, too, that our hope is not in a president, but in God Himself! Amen and amen! Thank you for bringing that focus back to our attention. Let us pray for this nation, all our leaders, and the coming president whoever he or she is, but God is our refuge and hope.

love you bunches,
Vicki

Beka said...

Ah yes, this psalm has been a great comfort to Mark and I during this very distressing election time!

Carol said...

Hi, Maxine,
I agree with all the comments written here and certainly my prayers are with you all for a good result.
I am not a citizen of your country but your election certainly has me worried also and many other Australians have been discussing it; along with me they are praying that the right decision will be made.

Susan said...

Hi Maxine,

Thanks so much for sharing this, it really brought me peace and put things in true perspective.

You are such a blessing, I enjoy stopping by♥