Newspaper + Bible

Someone once told me that Christians should read the newspaper in one hand with their Bible open in the other hand. It is easy to get discouraged when the news reveals global conflicts, economic concerns, and yet more tragedies. Alongside news headlines like these, Psalm 46 comes to mind as one of the best Bible passages on which to dwell.

So, I've included devotional below loosely based on the format used in our favorite devotional prayer app. Depending on if you listen to the songs, this devotion can be completed in 10-15 minutes. 

Opening Prayer | Lord, you are the source of shelter and strength. Open my heart to hear your Word of the peace that is found only in You.

Opening Song | Psalm 46 (Shane & Shane)

Scripture Reading | Psalm 46:1-11 ESV (option to listen here)

1 To the choirmaster. Of the Sons of Korah. According to Alamoth. A Song. 

God is our refuge and strength, 

a very present help in trouble. 

2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth give way, 

though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, 

3 though its waters roar and foam, 

though the mountains tremble at its swelling.   Selah 

4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, 

the holy habitation of the Most High. 

5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; 

God will help her when morning dawns. 

6 The nations rage, the kingdoms totter; 

he utters his voice, the earth melts. 

7 The LORD of hosts is with us; 

the God of Jacob is our fortress.   Selah 

8 Come, behold the works of the LORD, 

how he has brought desolations on the earth. 

9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; 

he breaks the bow and shatters the spear; 

he burns the chariots with fire. 

10 "Be still, and know that I am God. 

I will be exalted among the nations, 

I will be exalted in the earth!" 

11 The LORD of hosts is with us; 

the God of Jacob is our fortress.   Selah

Meditation Questions 

• “God is our refuge and strength…” (Psalm 46:1a) -- What image comes to your mind when you imagine these words?

• The foaming and roaring water of the earth verse three contrasts sharply with the delightful streams of the city of God in verse four. Imagine yourself in the presence of God. What do you hear and feel?

• This Psalm references many military images, but verse ten calls the hearers to “be still.” Another translation renders this phrase as “stop fighting.” What might God be calling you to stop so that you can be still and observe what He is doing?

Closing Song | “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” (Lazarus Church Version)

The church reformer Martin Luther wrote the song “A Mighty Fortress” based on this Psalm. As you listen to his song, consider what images are brought to mind. What does this song call Christians to trust in more deeply, or put into practice more faithfully?

Closing Prayer | Lord, you are the source of shelter and strength. May your Word direct my thoughts, words, and actions this day, and help me to be still and trust in You! Amen. 

<>< Pastor Mark 

Worship with us Sundays (10:00am) at Birnham Woods Elementary

Live stream & bulletin links at LazarusChurch.com

Strategic Goal for Lazarus Church

Become a hub for multiplying and incubating 

everyday missionaries, Gospel experiments, and future church planters.