God Is Our Refuge And Strength

GOD IS OUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 46:1

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 41:10, Proverbs 18:10, Nahum 1:7, 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, Hebrews 13:5-6

INTRODUCTION:

Life is full of challenges, uncertainties, and storms that can shake even the strongest individuals. However, as believers, we have a divine assurance that God is our refuge and strength. A refuge is a place of safety, shelter, and protection, while strength represents empowerment to withstand trials and difficulties. Psalm 46:1 reminds us that God is not only a shelter in times of trouble but also the strength we need to overcome every storm of life. In this study, we will explore what it means for God to be our refuge and strength and how we can fully trust in Him.

1. GOD AS OUR REFUGE

God provides divine protection for His children.

a) A place of safety in times of trouble (Psalm 91:2)

God is a strong tower that shelters His people from danger.

b) Protection from the enemy’s attacks (Isaiah 54:17)

No weapon formed against God’s children shall prosper.

c) A covering in times of crisis (Psalm 27:5)

He hides His people in the secret place during adversity.

d) Assurance of divine security (Proverbs 18:10)

The name of the Lord is a strong tower, and the righteous run into it for safety.

e) Biblical Example: Noah’s Ark as a Refuge (Genesis 7:1, 16)

God provided an ark for Noah and his family to shield them from the flood.

2. GOD AS OUR STRENGTH

Beyond protection, God gives us the strength to overcome.

a) Strength in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)

When we are weak, God’s strength is made perfect in us.

b) Strength for spiritual battles (Ephesians 6:10-11)

We are commanded to be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.

c) Strength for difficult seasons (Isaiah 40:29-31)

Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength.

d) Strength to stand in faith (Philippians 4:13)

We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.

e) Biblical Example: David Strengthened by God (1 Samuel 30:6)

When David faced distress, he encouraged himself in the Lord.

3. GOD IS EVER-PRESENT IN TIMES OF TROUBLE

God is not distant but near to His people.

a) He never abandons His own (Hebrews 13:5-6)

God has promised never to leave nor forsake us.

b) He responds in times of crisis (Psalm 34:17-19)

The Lord hears and delivers the righteous from all their troubles.

c) He is with us in every storm (Isaiah 43:2)

Even when we pass through deep waters, He is there.

d) He is closer than we think (Jeremiah 23:23-24)

God is near and watches over His children.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus Calming the Storm (Mark 4:37-39)

When the disciples were afraid, Jesus demonstrated His power over the storm.

4. HOW TO TAKE REFUGE IN GOD

Practical ways to rely on God as our refuge.

a) Trust in His promises (Isaiah 41:10)

Believe that God is with you and will strengthen you.

b) Call upon Him in prayer (Psalm 50:15)

Seek God in times of trouble, and He will deliver you.

c) Rest in His presence (Psalm 91:1-2)

Abide in His presence, and He will cover you.

d) Walk in obedience to His will (Deuteronomy 28:1-2)

Obedience ensures God’s covering and protection.

e) Biblical Example: Hezekiah’s Prayer Against the Assyrians (2 Kings 19:14-19)

When faced with threats, Hezekiah took refuge in God through prayer.

5. THE BLESSINGS OF GOD AS OUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH

When we trust God as our refuge, we enjoy divine benefits.

a) Peace in the midst of storms (John 14:27)

God’s presence brings unshakable peace.

b) Victory over the enemy (Romans 8:37)

We are more than conquerors through Christ.

c) Divine provision and sustenance (Psalm 23:1)

The Lord supplies all our needs.

d) Deliverance from fear (2 Timothy 1:7)

Faith in God removes every fear and anxiety.

e) Biblical Example: The Israelites’ Protection in Egypt (Exodus 12:13)

When judgment came upon Egypt, God was a refuge for His people.

CONCLUSION:

God is our refuge and strength, offering both protection and power to His children. No matter the battles, challenges, or attacks of the enemy, we can stand firm, knowing that He is ever-present to deliver and sustain us. In every situation, let us run to God as our place of safety and draw strength from Him.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Father, I take refuge in You; be my shield and my strength.

2. Father, be my refuge and deliver me from every trap of the enemy.

3. O Lord, strengthen me in times of weakness and trouble.

4. I cancel every evil plan designed to harm me in Jesus’ name.

5. Lord, let Your presence go with me wherever I go in Jesus mighty name.