God Is Our Refuge In Times Of Loss Series

GOD IS OUR REFUGE IN TIMES OF LOSS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:

Psalm 46:1-2 (KJV)

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.

INTRODUCTION:

In moments of loss, when grief overwhelms us and the weight of sorrow feels unbearable, we may search for comfort, for something or someone to hold onto. It is in these times that we are reminded of God’s unchanging nature, His presence, and His power to be our refuge and strength. The Psalmist declares that God is not just a refuge in times of trouble, but a "very present help"—not distant or detached, but near and available, right in the midst of our suffering. In the face of death and loss, when the world seems uncertain and our hearts are broken, God remains our steady anchor, our safe place.

This passage invites us to find solace in the truth that God is both our protector and our provider. While we may feel helpless, God’s Word assures us that He is always near, ready to give us the strength we need to endure. As we mourn the loss of our loved one, we can take comfort in the fact that God is not just present with us but is actively working to heal our hearts and carry us through this difficult time.

1. GOD IS OUR REFUGE IN TIMES OF TROUBLE

When we face the agony of loss, we are often tempted to look for refuge in other places, but God alone is our true refuge.

a) A refuge is a place of safety and protection. In the midst of emotional and spiritual turmoil, God provides a place where we can be safe, secure, and comforted (Psalm 34:18).

b) God's refuge is available at all times. In our deepest pain and sorrow, we do not have to search far for His presence; He is always near, ready to help (Psalm 145:18).

c) God offers peace that the world cannot give. The refuge God offers is not temporary or fleeting but an eternal peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).

d) God’s refuge is a constant, unchanging source of hope. Even in the face of life’s most painful moments, we can rely on His steadfast love and care (Lamentations 3:22-23).

Biblical Example: David found refuge in God during his darkest times, whether in the wilderness or when pursued by his enemies (Psalm 57:1).

God is our eternal refuge, providing peace and security in the midst of loss.

2. GOD IS OUR STRENGTH IN TIMES OF WEAKNESS

Grief can leave us feeling weak and unable to cope with the emotional burden, but God promises to be our source of strength.

a) God gives us strength when we are weak. In our moments of helplessness, God’s power is made perfect in our weakness, offering us the strength to keep going (2 Corinthians 12:9).

b) Strength from God is supernatural. It is not based on our own abilities but on His power working within us (Ephesians 3:16).

c) God empowers us to endure. In the midst of our grief, He provides the grace and strength we need to carry on (Isaiah 40:29-31).

d) The Lord renews our strength daily. Even when we feel weary, God will continue to strengthen us, renewing our inner man day by day (Psalm 103:5).

Biblical Example: When Moses led the Israelites through the wilderness, God provided strength for him and for the people, even in the most challenging circumstances (Exodus 17:6-7).

In our weakness, God gives us strength, enabling us to endure and move forward with hope.

3. GOD IS A VERY PRESENT HELP IN TROUBLE

God is not a distant observer but a present and active help in our times of need. In our grief, we are never alone.

a) God is always present with His people. Even when we feel abandoned, God’s presence remains with us, offering comfort and support (Deuteronomy 31:6).

b) God’s help comes at the right moment. We may not always understand His timing, but we can trust that He is never late and is always present in our trouble (Isaiah 41:10).

c) God’s help brings healing. His presence not only strengthens but also heals our broken hearts and brings peace to our troubled minds (Psalm 147:3).

d) God’s help is a tangible, comforting presence. In our grief, we can sense God’s love and care in ways that provide real comfort and solace (Matthew 5:4).

Biblical Example: Jesus, in the midst of His own sorrow, reached out to comfort the grieving Mary and Martha, showing His presence is with us in our time of loss (John 11:33-35).

God is always near, ready to offer His help and comfort at the right time.