WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:04.480 Those of you who are visiting or have been visiting for the last couple of weeks and didn't see me, my name is Sean. 00:00:04.700 --> 00:00:10.859 I'm one of the pastors of Trinity Cambridge Church, and we were away the last couple of weeks in Seattle visiting my parents. 00:00:11.580 --> 00:00:15.660 But it's our joy to be back with you to worship together and to preach God's Word to you. 00:00:16.280 --> 00:00:21.120 We've been in a series in the book of Acts, but we're actually not going to go back to Acts just yet. 00:00:21.120 --> 00:00:31.480 We had Pastor Dan preach on Psalm 34, and I'm going to preach on Psalm 46 today before we go back to the book of Acts next week. 00:00:32.060 --> 00:00:35.140 So please turn with me in your Bibles to Psalm 46. 00:00:44.560 --> 00:00:50.340 It should be toward the end of the first half of your Bibles, before Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. 00:00:51.119 --> 00:01:00.780 Let me pray for the reading and preaching of God's Word. 00:01:13.099 --> 00:01:18.219 Heavenly Father, we humble ourselves and incline our ears toward your Word. 00:01:21.120 --> 00:01:25.880 Many here are weary. 00:01:30.439 --> 00:01:35.000 We all have our own share of troubles in this life. 00:01:39.120 --> 00:01:44.060 And you alone are our anchor, our shelter. 00:01:44.060 --> 00:01:49.659 The one person. 00:01:52.659 --> 00:01:56.379 The only thing in our lives that never changes. 00:01:58.200 --> 00:02:01.439 And so we look to you and to your unchanging Word. 00:02:04.939 --> 00:02:05.879 Comfort us. 00:02:08.060 --> 00:02:09.180 Build our faith. 00:02:09.180 --> 00:02:19.060 That we might take refuge in you, the Lord of hosts. 00:02:22.939 --> 00:02:24.300 In Jesus' name we pray. 00:02:24.819 --> 00:02:25.080 Amen. 00:02:28.180 --> 00:02:29.340 Psalm 46. 00:02:29.340 --> 00:02:40.620 God is our refuge and strength. 00:02:41.000 --> 00:02:43.420 A very present help in trouble. 00:02:45.020 --> 00:02:48.980 Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth gives way. 00:02:49.699 --> 00:02:52.360 Though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea. 00:02:52.360 --> 00:02:55.300 Though its waters roar and foam. 00:02:55.300 --> 00:02:57.700 Though the mountains tremble at its swelling. 00:02:58.460 --> 00:02:58.820 Selah. 00:03:00.220 --> 00:03:04.440 There is a river whose streams may glad the city of God. 00:03:04.980 --> 00:03:07.880 The holy habitation of the Most High. 00:03:08.700 --> 00:03:10.620 God is in the midst of her. 00:03:11.060 --> 00:03:12.580 She shall not be moved. 00:03:13.580 --> 00:03:17.000 God will help her when morning dawns. 00:03:17.000 --> 00:03:20.259 The nations rage. 00:03:20.699 --> 00:03:22.280 The kingdoms totter. 00:03:23.419 --> 00:03:25.080 He utters His voice. 00:03:25.219 --> 00:03:26.099 The earth melts. 00:03:27.159 --> 00:03:29.879 The Lord of hosts is with us. 00:03:30.560 --> 00:03:32.979 The God of Jacob is our fortress. 00:03:33.520 --> 00:03:33.879 Selah. 00:03:35.539 --> 00:03:38.219 Come, behold the works of the Lord. 00:03:38.879 --> 00:03:41.599 How He has brought desolations on the earth. 00:03:42.280 --> 00:03:45.120 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth. 00:03:45.120 --> 00:03:47.800 He breaks the bow and shatters the spear. 00:03:47.939 --> 00:03:49.939 He burns the chariots with fire. 00:03:51.439 --> 00:03:52.060 Be still. 00:03:52.939 --> 00:03:55.300 And know that I am God. 00:03:56.200 --> 00:03:58.560 I will be exalted among the nations. 00:03:59.099 --> 00:04:01.520 I will be exalted in the earth. 00:04:02.980 --> 00:04:05.759 The Lord of hosts is with us. 00:04:06.580 --> 00:04:08.939 The God of Jacob is our fortress. 00:04:10.379 --> 00:04:10.780 Selah. 00:04:13.259 --> 00:04:14.819 In Wittenberg, Germany. 00:04:15.120 --> 00:04:17.459 The birthplace of the Reformation. 00:04:18.500 --> 00:04:21.899 There is a church that is colloquially known as the Castle Church. 00:04:22.500 --> 00:04:28.139 And that is the church that Martin Luther is said to have posted his 95 theses. 00:04:28.280 --> 00:04:30.000 Theses sparking the debate. 00:04:30.500 --> 00:04:33.560 And exposing some of the abuses of the Roman Catholic Church. 00:04:33.939 --> 00:04:36.699 And that eventually led to the Protestant Reformation. 00:04:36.699 --> 00:04:47.099 And if you look at the top, near the top of the tower at that Castle Church, there is a sentence in German which is translated to this. 00:04:47.800 --> 00:04:50.399 A mighty fortress is our God. 00:04:50.399 --> 00:04:55.459 That's the opening line of Martin Luther's famous hymn. 00:04:55.459 --> 00:04:57.060 His most famous hymn. 00:04:57.560 --> 00:05:00.199 Often called the Battle Hymn of the Reformation. 00:05:00.199 --> 00:05:04.479 And that hymn is based on Psalm 46. 00:05:04.979 --> 00:05:17.000 And church historians record that Martin Luther, when he was excommunicated by Pope Leo X and condemned as an outlaw by the Roman Emperor Charles V, 00:05:17.000 --> 00:05:29.639 and when he was surrounded by threats, mortal threats on all sides, he would frequently turn to his fellow reformer and friend, Philip Melanchthon, and say this, 00:05:29.639 --> 00:05:34.860 Let's sing the 46th, and let the devil do his worst. 00:05:37.439 --> 00:05:44.939 None of us have the two of the world's most powerful authorities and institutions after us at the moment. 00:05:46.120 --> 00:05:47.879 But we, or maybe you do, I don't know. 00:05:48.379 --> 00:05:53.000 But we all experience our own share of troubles in this life. 00:05:53.000 --> 00:06:04.560 But Psalm 46 teaches us that we can rest securely in the midst of any trouble because God is our immovable fortress. 00:06:05.240 --> 00:06:06.879 That's the main point of this psalm. 00:06:07.060 --> 00:06:17.019 First, we're going to look at God's protection from verses 1 to 3, then God's presence in verses 4 to 7, and God's pronouncement in verses 8 to 11. 00:06:18.860 --> 00:06:22.199 The verse 1 begins, it's kind of a thesis statement of this psalm. 00:06:22.199 --> 00:06:28.159 It says, God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 00:06:29.259 --> 00:06:31.180 God is our refuge. 00:06:32.079 --> 00:06:33.360 He's our shelter. 00:06:34.519 --> 00:06:36.300 What does that mean? 00:06:36.439 --> 00:06:42.319 When, to give you a picture of it, when bombs are falling and bullets are showering overhead, 00:06:43.099 --> 00:06:50.879 and a soldier runs into a bunker for shelter, and there finds immediate relief and rest. 00:06:50.879 --> 00:06:53.019 That's a refuge. 00:06:54.439 --> 00:07:04.519 When you're caught in a storm with pouring rain and howling winds, and then you run quickly into a house and shut the door behind you and breathe a sigh of relief, 00:07:04.939 --> 00:07:06.480 that's a refuge. 00:07:06.480 --> 00:07:17.460 When a baby is surrounded by strangers and their unfamiliar faces and is feeling stranger danger and is crying out of fear, 00:07:18.180 --> 00:07:25.640 she digs herself into her father's arms and then calms down immediately, finding safety and peace. 00:07:26.720 --> 00:07:28.060 That's a refuge. 00:07:28.060 --> 00:07:32.040 God is our refuge. 00:07:33.839 --> 00:07:35.379 He's also our strength. 00:07:36.500 --> 00:07:40.100 God doesn't merely protect us from external threats. 00:07:40.280 --> 00:07:43.600 He also empowers us when we, ourselves, are weak. 00:07:44.560 --> 00:07:51.300 When our legs are buckling under us and we can't stand any longer, God upholds us and gives us strength. 00:07:51.300 --> 00:07:56.100 And in this way, God is a very present help in trouble. 00:07:56.759 --> 00:08:02.980 That phrase might be translated more literally as a help in need that is surely found. 00:08:05.540 --> 00:08:15.000 God is not a friend who deserts us when we are most vulnerable and weak, when we are at our lowest. 00:08:15.000 --> 00:08:20.879 God is someone who is found when you are in need. 00:08:22.220 --> 00:08:26.139 When you are reeling from an abusive relationship. 00:08:28.180 --> 00:08:30.300 When your spouse has cheated on you. 00:08:31.620 --> 00:08:36.500 When your work is so physically and emotionally draining that you want to call it quits. 00:08:36.500 --> 00:08:43.539 When your health is deteriorated and then you are despairing. 00:08:45.320 --> 00:08:48.120 When your studies are so hard that you just want to give it up. 00:08:50.059 --> 00:08:56.720 When you are filled with fear and anxiety because of spreading diseases or because of some other diagnosis. 00:08:58.620 --> 00:09:02.879 When your children are rebellious and disobedient and they make you want to cry. 00:09:02.879 --> 00:09:13.480 When you are falling on hard times financially and you worry how you are going to provide for yourself or pay your next rent. 00:09:15.460 --> 00:09:19.000 When you want to give up on life altogether. 00:09:21.259 --> 00:09:23.200 God is not aloof. 00:09:23.879 --> 00:09:25.019 He is not far off. 00:09:25.259 --> 00:09:29.580 He is a help in need that is surely found. 00:09:29.580 --> 00:09:32.799 He is a very present help in trouble. 00:09:32.879 --> 00:09:40.840 Don't ever think that God is indifferent to your suffering or that he is unapproachable. 00:09:40.980 --> 00:09:41.980 He is nearby. 00:09:42.759 --> 00:09:44.159 And he will surely be found. 00:09:45.039 --> 00:09:48.679 And he doesn't merely send someone else to help you. 00:09:48.740 --> 00:09:52.899 He says he himself is our very present help in trouble. 00:09:53.080 --> 00:09:55.100 God is with us. 00:09:56.539 --> 00:09:57.879 Because he is for us. 00:09:59.320 --> 00:10:01.100 Therefore, verses 2 to 3 continue. 00:10:01.100 --> 00:10:03.639 We will not fear though the earth gives way. 00:10:03.960 --> 00:10:06.899 Though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea. 00:10:07.200 --> 00:10:08.980 Though its waters roar and foam. 00:10:09.080 --> 00:10:11.960 Though the mountains tremble at a swelling selah. 00:10:12.899 --> 00:10:16.500 Because God is our strength and refuge. 00:10:16.639 --> 00:10:18.340 Because God is our very present help. 00:10:18.399 --> 00:10:20.800 He says we will not fear. 00:10:20.799 --> 00:10:27.419 Then the psalmist goes on to describe a pair of cataclysmic events. 00:10:28.219 --> 00:10:30.039 He says though the earth gives way. 00:10:30.259 --> 00:10:32.819 Though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea. 00:10:32.959 --> 00:10:35.759 So he is describing a huge earthquake. 00:10:36.519 --> 00:10:40.419 Where even mountains seem to crumble and fall into the sea. 00:10:40.419 --> 00:10:46.240 And when earthquakes of such magnitude happen near the sea. 00:10:46.459 --> 00:10:47.319 Tsunamis follow. 00:10:48.319 --> 00:10:49.419 So the psalmist continues. 00:10:49.539 --> 00:10:51.719 Though its waters roar and foam. 00:10:52.199 --> 00:10:54.599 Though the mountains tremble at its swelling. 00:10:58.000 --> 00:10:58.439 Mountains. 00:10:58.440 --> 00:11:01.260 As you know. 00:11:01.540 --> 00:11:04.260 I just returned from visiting my parents in Seattle. 00:11:05.400 --> 00:11:06.340 With my family. 00:11:06.660 --> 00:11:08.280 And we do this once a year. 00:11:09.080 --> 00:11:10.140 And each time we visit. 00:11:10.240 --> 00:11:11.920 We find that so many things have changed. 00:11:12.660 --> 00:11:15.720 And I can't really find my way around town anymore. 00:11:17.060 --> 00:11:19.160 The storefronts have changed. 00:11:19.260 --> 00:11:21.060 All these new stores that I've never seen before. 00:11:21.180 --> 00:11:23.220 The roads themselves have changed. 00:11:23.220 --> 00:11:25.740 Even right by our house. 00:11:26.379 --> 00:11:28.960 It used to be next to a beautiful forest. 00:11:29.560 --> 00:11:31.060 And now it's been raised. 00:11:31.320 --> 00:11:32.500 And it's a construction site. 00:11:34.800 --> 00:11:37.240 I don't know why that makes the value of the price go up. 00:11:37.440 --> 00:11:38.440 I feel like it should go down. 00:11:38.800 --> 00:11:42.259 But everything looks different. 00:11:42.340 --> 00:11:42.860 It doesn't even look. 00:11:42.920 --> 00:11:44.420 It's hardly recognizable. 00:11:45.620 --> 00:11:47.120 But every time I go back to Seattle. 00:11:47.240 --> 00:11:49.100 There's still one thing that never changes. 00:11:49.100 --> 00:11:53.700 And as I drive out of the airport. 00:11:54.040 --> 00:11:55.960 Or are driven out of the airport. 00:11:56.259 --> 00:11:57.240 To the house. 00:11:58.240 --> 00:12:00.159 You see Mount Rainier. 00:12:01.259 --> 00:12:01.860 Standing. 00:12:02.460 --> 00:12:04.019 In the backdrop of the city. 00:12:04.779 --> 00:12:05.759 Always the same. 00:12:06.720 --> 00:12:08.180 Never moves an inch. 00:12:10.460 --> 00:12:12.060 That's what mountains are like. 00:12:12.340 --> 00:12:13.960 Mountain is a symbol of. 00:12:14.480 --> 00:12:15.000 Immovability. 00:12:15.180 --> 00:12:15.980 Of stability. 00:12:17.259 --> 00:12:18.580 A changelessness. 00:12:18.580 --> 00:12:19.600 A massive. 00:12:20.180 --> 00:12:20.820 Immovable. 00:12:21.420 --> 00:12:21.879 Entity. 00:12:23.759 --> 00:12:24.900 That's what mountains. 00:12:25.400 --> 00:12:26.420 Represent in literature. 00:12:26.660 --> 00:12:27.139 And throughout. 00:12:27.560 --> 00:12:28.080 Scripture. 00:12:29.160 --> 00:12:30.000 And so it's not. 00:12:30.720 --> 00:12:31.280 Surprising. 00:12:31.780 --> 00:12:33.180 That the psalmist uses that. 00:12:33.280 --> 00:12:34.160 And turns it on his head. 00:12:34.220 --> 00:12:35.259 When he tells us that. 00:12:35.400 --> 00:12:36.220 The mountains. 00:12:36.520 --> 00:12:37.800 Are being moved. 00:12:38.020 --> 00:12:39.160 Into the heart of the sea. 00:12:39.259 --> 00:12:40.000 And mountains. 00:12:40.220 --> 00:12:41.040 Are trembling. 00:12:45.820 --> 00:12:47.000 In other words. 00:12:47.000 --> 00:12:49.460 Seemingly immovable things. 00:12:49.460 --> 00:12:50.460 Are moving. 00:12:54.019 --> 00:12:55.080 Unchangeable things. 00:12:55.080 --> 00:12:56.139 Are changing. 00:12:57.379 --> 00:12:59.120 What are the things in your life. 00:12:59.220 --> 00:12:59.820 That you thought. 00:12:59.899 --> 00:13:01.259 Would never change. 00:13:02.220 --> 00:13:03.220 That you thought. 00:13:03.379 --> 00:13:05.659 I can always count on this. 00:13:06.539 --> 00:13:08.879 I can always count on this person. 00:13:08.940 --> 00:13:10.419 This person will always be there. 00:13:10.779 --> 00:13:12.519 This thing will never change. 00:13:12.519 --> 00:13:15.039 Maybe you thought. 00:13:15.039 --> 00:13:16.699 You could always depend on money. 00:13:18.100 --> 00:13:19.939 Maybe your looks. 00:13:20.939 --> 00:13:22.079 The government. 00:13:23.039 --> 00:13:23.639 Your work. 00:13:24.439 --> 00:13:25.019 Power. 00:13:25.220 --> 00:13:25.779 Authority. 00:13:26.039 --> 00:13:26.500 Health. 00:13:27.460 --> 00:13:28.480 Your best friend. 00:13:30.659 --> 00:13:32.360 Even your family members. 00:13:32.360 --> 00:13:35.680 The psalm is reminding us. 00:13:35.860 --> 00:13:37.720 That all of those things. 00:13:38.259 --> 00:13:39.539 Can be shaken. 00:13:39.960 --> 00:13:40.399 And moved. 00:13:42.320 --> 00:13:43.460 The world. 00:13:43.580 --> 00:13:44.399 As you know it. 00:13:44.440 --> 00:13:45.440 The entire world. 00:13:46.120 --> 00:13:46.879 Could shake. 00:13:47.379 --> 00:13:48.060 And tremble. 00:13:50.259 --> 00:13:51.500 But God's people. 00:13:51.680 --> 00:13:52.200 Need not fear. 00:13:52.899 --> 00:13:54.180 Even in those circumstances. 00:13:54.300 --> 00:13:55.100 Because it says. 00:13:55.180 --> 00:13:55.680 In verse one. 00:13:55.820 --> 00:13:56.779 God is. 00:13:57.019 --> 00:13:58.080 Our refuge. 00:13:58.220 --> 00:13:58.779 And strength. 00:13:59.279 --> 00:14:00.539 Our very present. 00:14:00.539 --> 00:14:00.940 Help. 00:14:00.940 --> 00:14:01.720 In trouble. 00:14:03.800 --> 00:14:04.220 The psalmist. 00:14:04.320 --> 00:14:05.040 Chose the most. 00:14:05.300 --> 00:14:06.100 Extreme scenario. 00:14:06.260 --> 00:14:06.860 To assure us. 00:14:06.960 --> 00:14:07.380 That no matter. 00:14:07.540 --> 00:14:08.080 How deep. 00:14:08.180 --> 00:14:09.220 Your trouble is. 00:14:09.580 --> 00:14:09.900 No matter. 00:14:10.000 --> 00:14:10.680 How desperate. 00:14:10.820 --> 00:14:11.720 Your need is. 00:14:12.000 --> 00:14:12.920 We can rest. 00:14:13.440 --> 00:14:14.040 Securely. 00:14:14.120 --> 00:14:14.940 Because God. 00:14:15.060 --> 00:14:15.560 Is our. 00:14:15.780 --> 00:14:16.220 Immovable. 00:14:16.380 --> 00:14:16.860 Fortress. 00:14:18.740 --> 00:14:19.580 That's God's. 00:14:19.720 --> 00:14:20.120 Protection. 00:14:21.400 --> 00:14:21.780 And then having. 00:14:21.880 --> 00:14:22.400 Reminders of. 00:14:22.560 --> 00:14:23.000 Of that. 00:14:23.100 --> 00:14:23.440 The psalmist. 00:14:23.520 --> 00:14:24.120 Turns to God's. 00:14:24.260 --> 00:14:24.660 Presence. 00:14:24.740 --> 00:14:25.040 In verses. 00:14:25.180 --> 00:14:25.800 Four to seven. 00:14:25.920 --> 00:14:26.600 Follow along with me. 00:14:26.620 --> 00:14:27.180 As I read it. 00:14:27.840 --> 00:14:28.480 There is a river. 00:14:28.560 --> 00:14:29.120 Who screams. 00:14:29.240 --> 00:14:29.700 Make glad. 00:14:29.760 --> 00:14:30.480 The city of God. 00:14:30.480 --> 00:14:31.639 The holy habitation. 00:14:31.639 --> 00:14:32.539 Of the most high. 00:14:33.259 --> 00:14:34.139 God is in. 00:14:34.139 --> 00:14:35.039 The midst of her. 00:14:35.399 --> 00:14:36.360 She shall not. 00:14:36.500 --> 00:14:36.980 Be moved. 00:14:37.720 --> 00:14:38.779 God will help her. 00:14:38.860 --> 00:14:39.879 When morning dawns. 00:14:40.279 --> 00:14:40.960 The nations. 00:14:41.100 --> 00:14:41.460 Rage. 00:14:41.519 --> 00:14:42.039 The kingdoms. 00:14:42.200 --> 00:14:42.460 Totter. 00:14:42.519 --> 00:14:43.320 He utters his voice. 00:14:43.399 --> 00:14:43.840 The earth. 00:14:44.500 --> 00:14:44.940 Melts. 00:14:46.060 --> 00:14:47.240 The Lord of hosts. 00:14:47.420 --> 00:14:48.620 Is with us. 00:14:49.100 --> 00:14:50.120 The God of Jacob. 00:14:50.259 --> 00:14:51.060 Is our. 00:14:51.500 --> 00:14:52.019 Fortress. 00:14:52.940 --> 00:14:53.440 Say love. 00:14:54.720 --> 00:14:55.860 Notice the contrast. 00:14:55.860 --> 00:14:56.539 Of imagery. 00:14:56.720 --> 00:14:57.700 Between verse three. 00:14:57.899 --> 00:14:58.680 And verse four. 00:14:58.679 --> 00:14:59.979 In verse three. 00:15:00.120 --> 00:15:00.779 The images of. 00:15:00.959 --> 00:15:01.579 A destructive. 00:15:02.019 --> 00:15:02.879 Raging sea. 00:15:03.079 --> 00:15:03.979 And then in verse four. 00:15:04.079 --> 00:15:04.839 The images of. 00:15:04.919 --> 00:15:05.519 A nourishing. 00:15:05.939 --> 00:15:06.899 And refreshing. 00:15:07.419 --> 00:15:08.819 A tranquil river. 00:15:10.879 --> 00:15:11.919 One of the things. 00:15:12.019 --> 00:15:12.799 That ancient people. 00:15:13.019 --> 00:15:13.639 Fear the most. 00:15:13.719 --> 00:15:14.759 Out of everything in life. 00:15:14.879 --> 00:15:15.159 Was. 00:15:15.819 --> 00:15:16.339 The sea. 00:15:16.799 --> 00:15:17.299 The oceans. 00:15:18.419 --> 00:15:19.979 The crashing waves. 00:15:21.259 --> 00:15:22.620 The howling winds. 00:15:23.339 --> 00:15:24.599 You couldn't predict. 00:15:24.839 --> 00:15:25.319 The ocean. 00:15:25.320 --> 00:15:28.240 You couldn't tame the ocean. 00:15:28.480 --> 00:15:29.379 You couldn't cross. 00:15:29.660 --> 00:15:30.240 The ocean. 00:15:30.360 --> 00:15:31.020 You couldn't see. 00:15:31.240 --> 00:15:32.300 The ocean's end. 00:15:32.420 --> 00:15:33.140 And you couldn't see. 00:15:33.280 --> 00:15:34.120 The ocean's bottom. 00:15:37.420 --> 00:15:39.120 So people fear the ocean. 00:15:40.760 --> 00:15:42.060 But for ancient people. 00:15:42.200 --> 00:15:42.720 Rivers. 00:15:43.100 --> 00:15:43.300 Were. 00:15:43.460 --> 00:15:44.340 Were cherished. 00:15:44.660 --> 00:15:45.440 Natural commodities. 00:15:46.480 --> 00:15:47.540 You could drink. 00:15:47.920 --> 00:15:48.379 The fresh. 00:15:48.460 --> 00:15:49.060 Fresh water. 00:15:49.620 --> 00:15:50.000 You could. 00:15:50.320 --> 00:15:50.860 Irrigate it. 00:15:50.920 --> 00:15:51.500 For farming. 00:15:52.260 --> 00:15:53.400 You could wash in it. 00:15:53.399 --> 00:15:55.100 Fish in it. 00:15:55.919 --> 00:15:56.639 This is why. 00:15:56.779 --> 00:15:57.579 Most of the world's. 00:15:57.759 --> 00:15:58.240 Civilizations. 00:15:58.419 --> 00:15:59.559 Developed around rivers. 00:16:02.039 --> 00:16:02.899 And you can see. 00:16:02.980 --> 00:16:03.620 This contrast. 00:16:03.740 --> 00:16:04.500 Between the sea. 00:16:04.579 --> 00:16:05.019 And rivers. 00:16:05.100 --> 00:16:05.819 Throughout scripture. 00:16:06.459 --> 00:16:07.439 In Luke 21. 00:16:07.600 --> 00:16:08.279 Verse 25. 00:16:08.439 --> 00:16:09.159 I think I have some of these. 00:16:09.240 --> 00:16:09.639 To project. 00:16:10.199 --> 00:16:10.439 On there. 00:16:10.500 --> 00:16:11.039 Jesus says. 00:16:11.039 --> 00:16:12.120 That in the end times. 00:16:12.720 --> 00:16:13.519 There will be signs. 00:16:13.799 --> 00:16:14.840 In sun and moon. 00:16:14.959 --> 00:16:15.519 And stars. 00:16:15.699 --> 00:16:16.419 And on the earth. 00:16:16.539 --> 00:16:17.740 Distress of nations. 00:16:18.100 --> 00:16:19.159 In perplexity. 00:16:19.500 --> 00:16:20.319 Because of. 00:16:20.439 --> 00:16:21.779 The roaring of the sea. 00:16:22.159 --> 00:16:23.039 And the waves. 00:16:23.399 --> 00:16:26.600 In Revelation 21. 00:16:26.860 --> 00:16:27.379 Verse 1. 00:16:27.480 --> 00:16:28.600 When God brings about. 00:16:28.759 --> 00:16:29.439 A new heaven. 00:16:29.519 --> 00:16:30.179 And a new earth. 00:16:30.259 --> 00:16:30.959 It says that. 00:16:31.459 --> 00:16:33.539 The sea was no more. 00:16:36.939 --> 00:16:37.459 However. 00:16:37.819 --> 00:16:38.399 From Genesis. 00:16:38.559 --> 00:16:39.000 Revelation. 00:16:39.179 --> 00:16:39.579 God's. 00:16:39.579 --> 00:16:40.980 God's dwelling place. 00:16:41.179 --> 00:16:42.399 Is marked. 00:16:42.740 --> 00:16:44.179 By a flowing river. 00:16:45.039 --> 00:16:46.399 In Genesis 2. 00:16:46.559 --> 00:16:47.000 Verse 10. 00:16:47.079 --> 00:16:47.379 It says. 00:16:47.500 --> 00:16:48.039 A river. 00:16:48.480 --> 00:16:49.539 Float out of Eden. 00:16:49.679 --> 00:16:50.699 To water the garden. 00:16:50.980 --> 00:16:51.779 And there it divided. 00:16:51.779 --> 00:16:52.639 And became. 00:16:52.639 --> 00:16:53.480 Four rivers. 00:16:54.559 --> 00:16:55.399 The prophetic. 00:16:55.600 --> 00:16:57.279 Vision of Ezekiel 47. 00:16:57.519 --> 00:16:58.500 Verses 1 to 2. 00:16:58.579 --> 00:16:58.879 Says that. 00:16:58.939 --> 00:16:59.799 In the temple of God. 00:16:59.839 --> 00:17:00.519 In the last days. 00:17:00.620 --> 00:17:01.139 Behold. 00:17:01.600 --> 00:17:02.039 Water. 00:17:02.199 --> 00:17:02.740 Was issuing. 00:17:02.899 --> 00:17:03.939 From below the threshold. 00:17:03.939 --> 00:17:04.619 Of the temple. 00:17:04.859 --> 00:17:05.539 Toward the east. 00:17:06.200 --> 00:17:06.740 A river. 00:17:06.899 --> 00:17:07.920 That I cannot cross. 00:17:10.399 --> 00:17:11.160 And finally. 00:17:11.319 --> 00:17:12.480 In Revelation 22. 00:17:12.619 --> 00:17:13.440 Verses 1 to 2. 00:17:13.500 --> 00:17:13.980 It says that. 00:17:13.980 --> 00:17:14.680 In the new heaven. 00:17:14.759 --> 00:17:15.279 And the earth. 00:17:15.980 --> 00:17:16.779 The river. 00:17:16.779 --> 00:17:17.740 Of the water. 00:17:17.740 --> 00:17:18.480 Of life. 00:17:19.079 --> 00:17:19.420 Bright. 00:17:19.420 --> 00:17:20.559 Bright as crystal. 00:17:20.559 --> 00:17:22.639 Flows from the throne of God. 00:17:22.700 --> 00:17:23.279 And of the Lamb. 00:17:23.399 --> 00:17:23.899 Through the middle. 00:17:24.059 --> 00:17:24.639 Of the street. 00:17:24.740 --> 00:17:25.359 Of the city. 00:17:28.200 --> 00:17:30.059 Because God alone. 00:17:30.159 --> 00:17:32.159 Rules these unruly seas. 00:17:32.720 --> 00:17:34.639 In God's dwelling places. 00:17:34.639 --> 00:17:36.440 Where there is perfect peace. 00:17:36.480 --> 00:17:36.980 And order. 00:17:37.319 --> 00:17:38.639 There is no sea. 00:17:39.599 --> 00:17:40.200 A symbol. 00:17:40.460 --> 00:17:41.700 Of chaos. 00:17:43.220 --> 00:17:43.679 However. 00:17:43.879 --> 00:17:44.460 A river. 00:17:44.460 --> 00:17:45.819 Which represents life. 00:17:45.819 --> 00:17:46.679 And peace. 00:17:48.000 --> 00:17:49.720 Always flows from God's temple. 00:17:50.559 --> 00:17:51.200 God. 00:17:51.519 --> 00:17:52.720 This contrast. 00:17:53.099 --> 00:17:53.960 Which we find here. 00:17:54.000 --> 00:17:54.419 In our text. 00:17:54.460 --> 00:17:55.079 Is a reminder. 00:17:55.079 --> 00:17:57.240 That when God is with us. 00:17:57.559 --> 00:17:59.940 He can calm even the stormy seas. 00:17:59.940 --> 00:18:01.259 Of our own hearts. 00:18:01.559 --> 00:18:02.319 And lives. 00:18:03.159 --> 00:18:04.799 God is the one who brings order. 00:18:05.079 --> 00:18:05.740 And peace. 00:18:07.259 --> 00:18:08.779 And this is the reason why. 00:18:08.859 --> 00:18:09.659 Verse 5 says. 00:18:09.700 --> 00:18:10.500 Of the city of God. 00:18:10.700 --> 00:18:12.720 God is in the midst of her. 00:18:13.139 --> 00:18:14.779 She shall not be moved. 00:18:15.159 --> 00:18:16.319 God will help her. 00:18:16.319 --> 00:18:17.919 When morning dawns. 00:18:17.920 --> 00:18:20.360 Because God is in the city. 00:18:20.440 --> 00:18:21.279 In the midst of the city. 00:18:21.360 --> 00:18:23.060 Even when mountains themselves. 00:18:23.060 --> 00:18:24.320 Are being moved and shaken. 00:18:24.700 --> 00:18:25.700 The city of God. 00:18:26.940 --> 00:18:27.460 Stands. 00:18:27.700 --> 00:18:28.180 Immovable. 00:18:30.360 --> 00:18:32.140 But why does this verse say. 00:18:32.300 --> 00:18:33.560 That God will help her. 00:18:33.640 --> 00:18:34.880 When morning dawns. 00:18:36.320 --> 00:18:37.519 Why can't he help them. 00:18:37.600 --> 00:18:38.039 In the evening. 00:18:38.039 --> 00:18:42.159 The phrase. 00:18:42.159 --> 00:18:43.220 When morning dawns. 00:18:43.220 --> 00:18:43.839 Is an allusion. 00:18:43.839 --> 00:18:45.220 To the book of Exodus. 00:18:45.839 --> 00:18:47.119 In Exodus 14. 00:18:47.119 --> 00:18:48.579 When Moses and the Israelites. 00:18:48.579 --> 00:18:50.099 Are crossing the Red Sea. 00:18:50.399 --> 00:18:51.759 That God has parted. 00:18:52.240 --> 00:18:53.379 The Egyptians pursue. 00:18:53.579 --> 00:18:54.639 And go in after them. 00:18:54.680 --> 00:18:55.399 In the midst of the sea. 00:18:55.500 --> 00:18:56.839 All Pharaoh's horses. 00:18:57.039 --> 00:18:57.659 His chariots. 00:18:57.759 --> 00:18:59.159 And his soldiers. 00:19:00.000 --> 00:19:00.740 And so the Israelites. 00:19:00.740 --> 00:19:01.539 Are cornered. 00:19:01.579 --> 00:19:02.940 They can't turn back anymore. 00:19:02.960 --> 00:19:04.059 Because of the Egyptian army. 00:19:04.279 --> 00:19:05.639 They can't turn to the side. 00:19:05.640 --> 00:19:08.180 Because of the wall of water. 00:19:09.700 --> 00:19:10.780 Only thing they can do. 00:19:10.860 --> 00:19:11.440 Is go forward. 00:19:11.540 --> 00:19:12.060 And even then. 00:19:12.100 --> 00:19:12.580 It's hopeless. 00:19:12.680 --> 00:19:13.180 Because they know. 00:19:13.220 --> 00:19:13.980 They can't outrun. 00:19:14.080 --> 00:19:14.900 Chariots and horses. 00:19:17.040 --> 00:19:18.780 So it's in that moment. 00:19:18.780 --> 00:19:19.700 Of desperation. 00:19:20.400 --> 00:19:21.720 It says in verse 27. 00:19:21.720 --> 00:19:22.600 Of Exodus 14. 00:19:22.800 --> 00:19:24.540 When the morning appeared. 00:19:25.640 --> 00:19:26.400 That's when. 00:19:26.620 --> 00:19:28.000 God with the pillar of fire. 00:19:28.900 --> 00:19:30.100 The pillar of cloud. 00:19:30.340 --> 00:19:31.560 Routes the Egyptian army. 00:19:32.180 --> 00:19:33.200 Throws them into a panic. 00:19:34.360 --> 00:19:35.460 And it says later. 00:19:35.460 --> 00:19:36.640 When the morning appeared. 00:19:37.160 --> 00:19:39.019 And as the Egyptians. 00:19:39.200 --> 00:19:39.680 Fled into it. 00:19:39.700 --> 00:19:40.559 The Lord threw the Egyptians. 00:19:40.720 --> 00:19:42.140 Into the midst of the sea. 00:19:44.299 --> 00:19:45.819 When morning appeared. 00:19:45.920 --> 00:19:47.360 This is the exact same phrase. 00:19:47.440 --> 00:19:49.059 That's translated in Psalm 46. 00:19:49.140 --> 00:19:49.680 Verse 5. 00:19:49.740 --> 00:19:51.340 Is when morning dawned. 00:19:52.559 --> 00:19:54.360 The greatest deliverance. 00:19:54.360 --> 00:19:55.500 In Israel's history. 00:19:55.500 --> 00:19:56.640 Up to that point. 00:19:57.000 --> 00:19:58.539 Was wrought by God. 00:19:58.640 --> 00:20:00.360 When morning dawned. 00:20:01.819 --> 00:20:03.840 And so the psalmist uses that. 00:20:03.839 --> 00:20:04.839 God's promise. 00:20:04.839 --> 00:20:06.039 To tell us. 00:20:06.099 --> 00:20:06.799 To assure us. 00:20:06.879 --> 00:20:07.599 Of God's promise. 00:20:07.659 --> 00:20:08.339 And deliverance. 00:20:09.079 --> 00:20:11.059 That means no matter how dark. 00:20:11.119 --> 00:20:13.099 And long your night might be. 00:20:13.879 --> 00:20:15.399 God promises that. 00:20:15.619 --> 00:20:17.839 Morning always dawns. 00:20:19.199 --> 00:20:21.519 No matter how long your night is. 00:20:21.579 --> 00:20:23.019 The sun always. 00:20:23.579 --> 00:20:24.179 Comes up. 00:20:25.619 --> 00:20:28.059 In his perfect timing. 00:20:28.059 --> 00:20:28.960 And God will. 00:20:29.480 --> 00:20:32.059 Help you when morning dawns. 00:20:34.940 --> 00:20:36.799 Some of you have experienced. 00:20:36.980 --> 00:20:38.379 Or are presently going through. 00:20:38.599 --> 00:20:39.980 Very dark nights. 00:20:40.720 --> 00:20:42.139 And it has been many nights. 00:20:42.559 --> 00:20:43.399 Long nights. 00:20:44.000 --> 00:20:44.980 But when you feel. 00:20:45.079 --> 00:20:47.319 Hemmed in from all sides. 00:20:47.379 --> 00:20:48.980 When you feel trapped. 00:20:49.399 --> 00:20:50.599 When you feel powerless. 00:20:50.819 --> 00:20:51.440 And hopeless. 00:20:52.440 --> 00:20:53.839 Persevere in your faith. 00:20:53.919 --> 00:20:55.379 In the promises of God. 00:20:55.380 --> 00:20:55.460 God. 00:20:56.880 --> 00:20:58.860 Because when morning dawns. 00:20:58.860 --> 00:21:00.620 Help will come from the Lord. 00:21:05.000 --> 00:21:06.880 He will surely come to your aid. 00:21:08.220 --> 00:21:10.580 You will find that God is not distant. 00:21:10.860 --> 00:21:11.820 But that he is a very. 00:21:12.200 --> 00:21:13.020 Pleasant help. 00:21:16.240 --> 00:21:17.020 And it's that. 00:21:17.160 --> 00:21:17.720 For that reason. 00:21:17.840 --> 00:21:19.080 We shall not be moved. 00:21:21.020 --> 00:21:21.680 Verse 6. 00:21:21.780 --> 00:21:23.140 Continues the thought of verse 5. 00:21:23.140 --> 00:21:24.340 The nations rage. 00:21:24.400 --> 00:21:25.259 The kingdoms totter. 00:21:25.340 --> 00:21:26.240 He utters his voice. 00:21:26.300 --> 00:21:27.140 The earth melts. 00:21:27.920 --> 00:21:29.380 The word totter here. 00:21:29.480 --> 00:21:30.340 In kingdoms totter. 00:21:30.440 --> 00:21:31.560 Is the same Hebrew word. 00:21:31.660 --> 00:21:32.600 That has been translated. 00:21:32.759 --> 00:21:33.580 As move. 00:21:34.100 --> 00:21:34.900 In verse 2. 00:21:35.020 --> 00:21:35.960 And verse 5. 00:21:36.340 --> 00:21:36.980 So the psalmist. 00:21:37.120 --> 00:21:38.680 Is setting up a contrast. 00:21:39.259 --> 00:21:40.120 When the kingdoms. 00:21:40.120 --> 00:21:41.200 Are moved. 00:21:41.200 --> 00:21:41.980 And shaken. 00:21:42.240 --> 00:21:42.840 By wars. 00:21:42.940 --> 00:21:43.820 And rumors of wars. 00:21:43.920 --> 00:21:44.900 When the mountains. 00:21:45.120 --> 00:21:45.780 Are moved. 00:21:45.900 --> 00:21:47.160 By natural disasters. 00:21:47.480 --> 00:21:48.600 Threaten our existence. 00:21:48.840 --> 00:21:49.640 And even then. 00:21:49.940 --> 00:21:50.900 The city of God. 00:21:51.020 --> 00:21:52.720 Shall not be moved. 00:21:53.759 --> 00:21:55.340 Because God is in. 00:21:55.540 --> 00:21:56.180 The midst of her. 00:21:58.080 --> 00:22:00.220 God is our immovable fortress. 00:22:00.420 --> 00:22:00.920 In him. 00:22:01.240 --> 00:22:02.940 There is no change. 00:22:03.100 --> 00:22:04.020 No variation. 00:22:04.320 --> 00:22:05.640 Or shadow due to change. 00:22:07.180 --> 00:22:09.140 Even when the immovable mountains. 00:22:09.140 --> 00:22:09.980 Of your life. 00:22:10.140 --> 00:22:10.700 Collapse. 00:22:11.200 --> 00:22:12.840 Even when the seemingly invincible. 00:22:13.080 --> 00:22:14.220 Kingdoms in this world. 00:22:14.340 --> 00:22:15.160 Bow their knees. 00:22:15.240 --> 00:22:16.200 Before a pandemic. 00:22:16.600 --> 00:22:17.340 Or war. 00:22:18.400 --> 00:22:19.920 When the world's news. 00:22:19.920 --> 00:22:20.840 Is overwhelming. 00:22:20.839 --> 00:22:23.699 When society is in disarray. 00:22:23.879 --> 00:22:25.019 When common morality. 00:22:25.199 --> 00:22:25.879 Is degenerating. 00:22:25.980 --> 00:22:26.639 When we don't know. 00:22:26.759 --> 00:22:28.319 Where our world is headed. 00:22:28.799 --> 00:22:30.000 When our own lives. 00:22:30.119 --> 00:22:31.279 Seem topsy-turvy. 00:22:31.480 --> 00:22:33.000 And spiraling out of control. 00:22:34.679 --> 00:22:35.939 God is not. 00:22:36.199 --> 00:22:37.159 I assure you. 00:22:37.439 --> 00:22:38.079 Pacing. 00:22:38.439 --> 00:22:39.299 Back and forth. 00:22:40.779 --> 00:22:42.199 Hyper ventilating. 00:22:42.939 --> 00:22:43.959 Wracked with anxiety. 00:22:43.960 --> 00:22:50.299 God is securely. 00:22:50.799 --> 00:22:51.519 Immovably. 00:22:52.120 --> 00:22:52.539 Seated. 00:22:52.860 --> 00:22:53.720 On his throne. 00:22:54.579 --> 00:22:55.340 Sovereignly. 00:22:55.519 --> 00:22:56.539 Ruling the world. 00:22:56.680 --> 00:22:57.640 With total. 00:22:58.400 --> 00:22:58.799 Control. 00:22:58.799 --> 00:23:07.680 There's another wordplay. 00:23:07.759 --> 00:23:08.940 In verse 3 and 6. 00:23:09.019 --> 00:23:10.299 It says that the waters roar. 00:23:11.180 --> 00:23:12.700 And the nations rage. 00:23:12.960 --> 00:23:14.720 Those are two same words again. 00:23:14.879 --> 00:23:15.319 Roar. 00:23:16.079 --> 00:23:16.579 Rage. 00:23:17.799 --> 00:23:18.659 It's noisy. 00:23:19.319 --> 00:23:20.460 There's a lot of chatter. 00:23:21.259 --> 00:23:23.779 And even in our noisy circumstances. 00:23:24.139 --> 00:23:25.319 God is not panicking. 00:23:25.440 --> 00:23:26.099 Or alarmed. 00:23:26.099 --> 00:23:28.439 He has no need to shout back. 00:23:29.259 --> 00:23:30.259 All he does. 00:23:30.359 --> 00:23:30.859 Verse 6. 00:23:31.000 --> 00:23:32.359 He utters his voice. 00:23:33.299 --> 00:23:34.759 Just makes a sound. 00:23:35.480 --> 00:23:36.000 The earth. 00:23:36.619 --> 00:23:37.059 Melts. 00:23:40.299 --> 00:23:42.079 Can you imagine that kind of power? 00:23:43.500 --> 00:23:45.039 The nations are raging. 00:23:45.219 --> 00:23:46.319 The waters are roaring. 00:23:46.519 --> 00:23:47.939 And God just speaks a word. 00:23:50.079 --> 00:23:51.119 Melts the earth. 00:23:51.119 --> 00:23:56.079 No matter how. 00:23:56.079 --> 00:23:56.479 How much. 00:23:59.939 --> 00:24:00.819 How much. 00:24:01.059 --> 00:24:01.879 The noise. 00:24:02.039 --> 00:24:02.639 The cacophony. 00:24:03.179 --> 00:24:05.599 Is dominating your life right now. 00:24:06.019 --> 00:24:07.659 You can rest securely. 00:24:07.659 --> 00:24:09.519 In our immovable fortress. 00:24:11.379 --> 00:24:13.399 You can be attentive to his voice. 00:24:13.519 --> 00:24:14.559 And his word instead. 00:24:14.559 --> 00:24:18.980 Because as verse 7 says. 00:24:19.079 --> 00:24:21.279 The Lord of hosts is with us. 00:24:21.319 --> 00:24:23.419 The God of Jacob is our fortress. 00:24:24.480 --> 00:24:25.899 The Lord of hosts. 00:24:26.579 --> 00:24:27.539 Literally means. 00:24:27.799 --> 00:24:29.440 The Lord of the armies. 00:24:31.000 --> 00:24:32.819 It's telling us that our God. 00:24:32.899 --> 00:24:34.599 Is a warrior God. 00:24:36.399 --> 00:24:38.779 He is the Lord of the armies. 00:24:38.779 --> 00:24:42.200 And his armies. 00:24:42.619 --> 00:24:43.700 Are all. 00:24:44.160 --> 00:24:44.839 Around him. 00:24:47.660 --> 00:24:48.680 Remember that story. 00:24:48.779 --> 00:24:49.519 In 2nd Kings. 00:24:49.799 --> 00:24:50.579 Chapter 6. 00:24:50.940 --> 00:24:51.779 The king of Aram. 00:24:52.460 --> 00:24:53.500 Plots to kill. 00:24:53.759 --> 00:24:54.700 Elisha the prophet. 00:24:55.879 --> 00:24:57.000 He's so scared. 00:24:57.079 --> 00:24:58.259 Of this lonely prophet. 00:24:59.059 --> 00:24:59.940 He dwells with. 00:25:00.440 --> 00:25:01.180 One servant. 00:25:02.359 --> 00:25:04.000 But he sends an entire army. 00:25:04.639 --> 00:25:05.639 Because he's afraid. 00:25:07.240 --> 00:25:08.660 The army surrounds them. 00:25:08.660 --> 00:25:09.300 And the servant. 00:25:09.300 --> 00:25:11.060 Is scared out of his mind. 00:25:11.100 --> 00:25:11.500 In the morning. 00:25:11.519 --> 00:25:12.340 When he sees them. 00:25:13.259 --> 00:25:13.920 And so he says. 00:25:14.019 --> 00:25:14.680 In verse 15. 00:25:14.759 --> 00:25:15.480 2nd Kings 6. 00:25:15.540 --> 00:25:16.320 Now when the attendant. 00:25:16.320 --> 00:25:17.220 Of the men of God. 00:25:17.340 --> 00:25:18.140 Had risen early. 00:25:18.240 --> 00:25:18.680 And gone out. 00:25:18.740 --> 00:25:19.200 Behold. 00:25:19.480 --> 00:25:20.700 An army with horses. 00:25:20.700 --> 00:25:21.400 And chariots. 00:25:21.400 --> 00:25:22.580 Was circling the city. 00:25:22.800 --> 00:25:23.560 And his servant. 00:25:23.560 --> 00:25:24.700 Said to Elisha. 00:25:25.300 --> 00:25:25.740 Alas. 00:25:25.800 --> 00:25:26.440 My master. 00:25:27.000 --> 00:25:28.220 What shall we do? 00:25:31.120 --> 00:25:32.220 This is a situation. 00:25:32.220 --> 00:25:33.860 That we often find ourselves in. 00:25:34.240 --> 00:25:34.900 We feel. 00:25:35.460 --> 00:25:35.940 Outnumbered. 00:25:36.200 --> 00:25:36.680 Overwhelmed. 00:25:37.519 --> 00:25:37.960 Outmatched. 00:25:37.960 --> 00:25:39.779 But then Elisha. 00:25:39.779 --> 00:25:40.700 Responds to the servant. 00:25:40.799 --> 00:25:41.259 In this way. 00:25:41.340 --> 00:25:41.600 He says. 00:25:41.680 --> 00:25:42.559 Do not fear. 00:25:43.059 --> 00:25:45.299 For those who are with us. 00:25:45.759 --> 00:25:46.720 Are more. 00:25:46.880 --> 00:25:48.480 Than those who are with them. 00:25:49.860 --> 00:25:51.100 Then Elisha prayed. 00:25:51.160 --> 00:25:51.440 And said. 00:25:51.480 --> 00:25:51.940 Oh Lord. 00:25:52.019 --> 00:25:52.500 I pray. 00:25:52.620 --> 00:25:53.620 Open his eyes. 00:25:53.680 --> 00:25:54.660 That he may see. 00:25:55.000 --> 00:25:55.660 And the Lord. 00:25:55.740 --> 00:25:56.799 Opened the servant's eyes. 00:25:56.860 --> 00:25:57.660 And he saw. 00:25:58.440 --> 00:25:59.059 And behold. 00:25:59.059 --> 00:25:59.920 The mountain. 00:26:00.559 --> 00:26:01.660 Was full of horses. 00:26:01.819 --> 00:26:02.940 And chariots of fire. 00:26:03.180 --> 00:26:04.240 All around. 00:26:04.440 --> 00:26:04.960 Elisha. 00:26:04.960 --> 00:26:07.980 Opening the eyes. 00:26:08.180 --> 00:26:08.700 Of faith. 00:26:08.759 --> 00:26:09.559 So that we see. 00:26:09.700 --> 00:26:10.660 The armies of God. 00:26:10.720 --> 00:26:11.779 All around us. 00:26:11.860 --> 00:26:12.299 That's. 00:26:12.579 --> 00:26:13.920 What Psalm 46. 00:26:14.259 --> 00:26:15.579 Is intended to do. 00:26:15.720 --> 00:26:16.400 For us. 00:26:16.840 --> 00:26:18.180 It's trying to open up. 00:26:18.220 --> 00:26:18.940 Our eyes of faith. 00:26:19.019 --> 00:26:19.539 That we see. 00:26:19.620 --> 00:26:20.680 The Lord of the armies. 00:26:22.740 --> 00:26:23.600 Backing us up. 00:26:23.599 --> 00:26:28.339 No matter how. 00:26:28.859 --> 00:26:29.500 Many problems. 00:26:29.579 --> 00:26:30.359 You have in your life. 00:26:30.439 --> 00:26:31.179 How many enemies. 00:26:31.339 --> 00:26:32.059 You have in your life. 00:26:32.139 --> 00:26:32.839 Remember that. 00:26:33.079 --> 00:26:34.519 Those who are with you. 00:26:34.939 --> 00:26:35.759 Are greater. 00:26:35.899 --> 00:26:37.259 Than those who are with them. 00:26:37.759 --> 00:26:39.480 Because the Lord of hosts. 00:26:40.019 --> 00:26:40.779 Is with us. 00:26:42.179 --> 00:26:43.099 The God. 00:26:43.659 --> 00:26:44.319 Of Abraham. 00:26:44.659 --> 00:26:45.039 Isaac. 00:26:45.159 --> 00:26:45.599 And Jacob. 00:26:45.599 --> 00:26:46.879 Is our God. 00:26:47.039 --> 00:26:47.379 It says. 00:26:49.339 --> 00:26:50.500 Just that one. 00:26:51.500 --> 00:26:51.980 Possessive. 00:26:51.980 --> 00:26:52.660 Pronoun. 00:26:53.339 --> 00:26:53.900 Communicates. 00:26:54.019 --> 00:26:54.620 So many. 00:26:54.779 --> 00:26:55.519 Wonderful things. 00:26:55.559 --> 00:26:55.920 Doesn't it? 00:26:56.819 --> 00:26:57.940 God of Jacob. 00:26:58.120 --> 00:26:58.539 Is. 00:26:58.880 --> 00:26:59.259 Our. 00:26:59.880 --> 00:27:00.480 Fortress. 00:27:04.019 --> 00:27:05.440 The God of Adam. 00:27:05.539 --> 00:27:06.519 Who created the heavens. 00:27:06.599 --> 00:27:07.160 And the earth. 00:27:07.500 --> 00:27:08.400 The God of Moses. 00:27:08.500 --> 00:27:09.779 Who parted the Red Sea. 00:27:09.900 --> 00:27:10.480 The God of. 00:27:10.680 --> 00:27:11.160 Elisha. 00:27:11.200 --> 00:27:12.339 Who raised up the dead. 00:27:12.339 --> 00:27:13.079 The God of. 00:27:13.440 --> 00:27:13.799 David. 00:27:14.019 --> 00:27:14.640 Who conquered. 00:27:15.059 --> 00:27:15.860 Kingdoms. 00:27:16.700 --> 00:27:17.720 That God. 00:27:17.839 --> 00:27:18.220 Is. 00:27:18.539 --> 00:27:18.839 Your. 00:27:19.160 --> 00:27:19.559 God. 00:27:19.559 --> 00:27:23.619 He is the warrior. 00:27:24.679 --> 00:27:25.679 The king. 00:27:26.279 --> 00:27:27.279 The Lord of hosts. 00:27:29.299 --> 00:27:30.559 The God of Jacob. 00:27:30.559 --> 00:27:31.139 Is our. 00:27:31.700 --> 00:27:32.220 Fortress. 00:27:32.379 --> 00:27:32.980 He is like. 00:27:33.879 --> 00:27:34.099 An. 00:27:34.799 --> 00:27:35.240 Unassailable. 00:27:35.579 --> 00:27:36.119 Fortress. 00:27:36.339 --> 00:27:36.819 Perched. 00:27:36.919 --> 00:27:37.359 Atop. 00:27:37.480 --> 00:27:38.399 This impregnable. 00:27:38.539 --> 00:27:38.859 Mountain. 00:27:44.639 --> 00:27:45.779 We are safe. 00:27:45.859 --> 00:27:46.159 With him. 00:27:46.160 --> 00:27:48.880 We can rest. 00:27:49.120 --> 00:27:49.600 Securely. 00:27:49.600 --> 00:27:50.120 In the midst. 00:27:50.160 --> 00:27:50.779 Of any trouble. 00:27:50.940 --> 00:27:51.560 Because God. 00:27:51.640 --> 00:27:52.000 Is our. 00:27:52.200 --> 00:27:52.680 Immovable. 00:27:53.240 --> 00:27:53.759 Fortress. 00:27:56.580 --> 00:27:57.019 God's. 00:27:57.060 --> 00:27:57.660 Our protection. 00:27:58.000 --> 00:27:58.720 His presence. 00:27:59.160 --> 00:27:59.660 Is with us. 00:27:59.700 --> 00:28:00.360 And in the concluding. 00:28:00.420 --> 00:28:01.220 Section of the psalm. 00:28:01.380 --> 00:28:02.460 We find God's. 00:28:02.840 --> 00:28:03.279 Authoritative. 00:28:03.279 --> 00:28:03.920 And final. 00:28:04.279 --> 00:28:04.759 Pronouncement. 00:28:05.240 --> 00:28:06.200 He commands us. 00:28:07.120 --> 00:28:07.600 Read verses. 00:28:07.700 --> 00:28:08.300 Eight to ten. 00:28:08.900 --> 00:28:09.540 Along with me. 00:28:09.620 --> 00:28:09.820 It says. 00:28:09.920 --> 00:28:10.200 Come. 00:28:11.040 --> 00:28:11.480 Behold. 00:28:11.620 --> 00:28:12.360 The works. 00:28:12.360 --> 00:28:13.000 Of the Lord. 00:28:13.480 --> 00:28:14.279 How he has brought. 00:28:14.600 --> 00:28:15.000 Desolations. 00:28:15.000 --> 00:28:15.660 On the earth. 00:28:15.660 --> 00:28:16.720 He makes war. 00:28:16.920 --> 00:28:17.279 Seize. 00:28:17.360 --> 00:28:18.259 To the end of the earth. 00:28:18.400 --> 00:28:19.540 He breaks the bow. 00:28:19.640 --> 00:28:20.700 And shatters the spear. 00:28:20.779 --> 00:28:21.900 He burns the chariots. 00:28:21.900 --> 00:28:22.460 With fire. 00:28:23.060 --> 00:28:23.740 Be still. 00:28:24.400 --> 00:28:25.140 And know. 00:28:25.300 --> 00:28:26.480 That I am God. 00:28:27.500 --> 00:28:28.640 I will be exalted. 00:28:28.640 --> 00:28:29.540 Among the nations. 00:28:29.720 --> 00:28:30.540 I will be exalted. 00:28:30.540 --> 00:28:31.240 In the earth. 00:28:32.320 --> 00:28:33.060 God issues. 00:28:33.180 --> 00:28:33.779 Two commands. 00:28:33.779 --> 00:28:34.500 Here for us. 00:28:35.100 --> 00:28:35.960 In verse eight. 00:28:36.000 --> 00:28:36.420 He says. 00:28:36.540 --> 00:28:36.880 Come. 00:28:37.400 --> 00:28:37.840 Behold. 00:28:38.140 --> 00:28:38.940 The works. 00:28:39.100 --> 00:28:39.600 Of the Lord. 00:28:39.660 --> 00:28:40.580 That's the first command. 00:28:41.160 --> 00:28:41.480 And then. 00:28:41.660 --> 00:28:42.600 He gives the second command. 00:28:42.680 --> 00:28:43.220 In verse ten. 00:28:43.300 --> 00:28:43.620 He says. 00:28:43.620 --> 00:28:45.019 Be still. 00:28:45.019 --> 00:28:46.059 And know. 00:28:46.059 --> 00:28:47.079 That I am God. 00:28:47.200 --> 00:28:47.339 So. 00:28:47.759 --> 00:28:49.279 Come and behold. 00:28:49.900 --> 00:28:50.779 Be still. 00:28:50.900 --> 00:28:51.440 And know. 00:28:51.539 --> 00:28:52.680 These are the two commands. 00:28:52.779 --> 00:28:53.819 That God gives us here. 00:28:55.339 --> 00:28:56.960 If we desire rest. 00:28:57.059 --> 00:28:58.059 In the midst of our troubles. 00:28:58.059 --> 00:28:59.279 We must behold. 00:28:59.279 --> 00:28:59.879 The works. 00:28:59.960 --> 00:29:00.539 Of the Lord. 00:29:01.079 --> 00:29:01.980 We must see. 00:29:02.079 --> 00:29:02.980 And remember. 00:29:03.400 --> 00:29:04.839 God's redemptive acts. 00:29:05.559 --> 00:29:07.279 His numerous deliverances. 00:29:07.279 --> 00:29:08.299 Of his people. 00:29:08.460 --> 00:29:09.619 How faithful. 00:29:09.619 --> 00:29:10.500 He has been. 00:29:10.639 --> 00:29:11.200 To us. 00:29:11.200 --> 00:29:13.819 Do you see that? 00:29:14.019 --> 00:29:14.559 Do you see. 00:29:14.700 --> 00:29:15.940 How God has saved you. 00:29:16.019 --> 00:29:16.559 In the past. 00:29:16.920 --> 00:29:18.180 How he has delivered you. 00:29:18.299 --> 00:29:19.580 Time and time again. 00:29:19.940 --> 00:29:21.240 How he has been with you. 00:29:21.240 --> 00:29:22.440 Through all the years. 00:29:22.740 --> 00:29:24.400 Has never left your side. 00:29:24.640 --> 00:29:25.680 Do you see that? 00:29:31.360 --> 00:29:32.759 The Lord of hosts. 00:29:32.759 --> 00:29:33.980 Gave victory to. 00:29:34.240 --> 00:29:35.539 And brought rest to. 00:29:35.539 --> 00:29:36.140 Israel. 00:29:36.660 --> 00:29:38.420 Time and time again. 00:29:38.420 --> 00:29:39.460 Throughout the scripture. 00:29:39.460 --> 00:29:39.640 Earth. 00:29:40.759 --> 00:29:42.380 He makes war cease. 00:29:42.480 --> 00:29:43.380 To the end of the earth. 00:29:43.460 --> 00:29:44.460 He breaks the bow. 00:29:44.579 --> 00:29:45.640 And shatters the spear. 00:29:45.720 --> 00:29:46.299 He burns. 00:29:46.660 --> 00:29:47.279 The chariots. 00:29:47.360 --> 00:29:48.039 With fire. 00:29:48.500 --> 00:29:49.120 And eventually. 00:29:49.120 --> 00:29:50.279 He will bring. 00:29:50.420 --> 00:29:51.360 All wars. 00:29:51.440 --> 00:29:52.019 To an end. 00:29:53.779 --> 00:29:54.940 Isaiah chapter 2. 00:29:55.180 --> 00:29:55.640 Prophesies. 00:29:55.720 --> 00:29:56.660 That in the latter days. 00:29:56.720 --> 00:29:57.799 The Lord will establish. 00:29:57.940 --> 00:29:58.819 His rule. 00:29:58.819 --> 00:29:59.460 And judgment. 00:29:59.960 --> 00:30:00.799 In such a way. 00:30:00.880 --> 00:30:01.960 Among all the nations. 00:30:02.299 --> 00:30:02.900 That the nations. 00:30:02.900 --> 00:30:04.420 Shall beat their swords. 00:30:04.539 --> 00:30:05.380 Into plowshares. 00:30:05.519 --> 00:30:06.400 And their spears. 00:30:06.400 --> 00:30:07.480 Into pruning hooks. 00:30:07.880 --> 00:30:08.960 Nations shall not. 00:30:08.960 --> 00:30:09.960 Lift up a sword. 00:30:09.960 --> 00:30:10.680 Against nation. 00:30:10.799 --> 00:30:11.440 Neither shall they. 00:30:11.500 --> 00:30:12.279 Learn war. 00:30:12.579 --> 00:30:13.180 Anymore. 00:30:16.440 --> 00:30:17.600 Revelation 19. 00:30:17.600 --> 00:30:18.920 Also prophesies. 00:30:18.920 --> 00:30:20.160 Of those last days. 00:30:20.819 --> 00:30:21.500 I love. 00:30:21.700 --> 00:30:22.180 This picture. 00:30:22.259 --> 00:30:22.720 That we see. 00:30:22.840 --> 00:30:23.960 Of our Lord Jesus here. 00:30:24.620 --> 00:30:25.400 He's called. 00:30:25.740 --> 00:30:26.279 Faithful. 00:30:26.360 --> 00:30:26.960 And true. 00:30:27.799 --> 00:30:28.740 That's his name. 00:30:30.059 --> 00:30:30.960 He's called. 00:30:31.079 --> 00:30:32.059 The word of God. 00:30:32.600 --> 00:30:33.940 And he will return. 00:30:35.079 --> 00:30:36.539 This dazzling picture. 00:30:36.700 --> 00:30:38.079 Riding on a white horse. 00:30:38.079 --> 00:30:39.859 To judge. 00:30:39.859 --> 00:30:40.859 And make war. 00:30:40.859 --> 00:30:41.740 In righteousness. 00:30:43.419 --> 00:30:44.960 His eyes are like. 00:30:45.179 --> 00:30:46.240 A flame of fire. 00:30:46.240 --> 00:30:48.920 And on his head. 00:30:48.920 --> 00:31:02.920 And on his head. 00:31:03.019 --> 00:31:04.079 Are many diadems. 00:31:06.240 --> 00:31:07.640 And he has a name. 00:31:07.720 --> 00:31:08.740 Written that no one knows. 00:31:08.799 --> 00:31:09.400 But himself. 00:31:10.200 --> 00:31:11.299 He is clothed. 00:31:11.299 --> 00:31:11.900 In a robe. 00:31:11.980 --> 00:31:12.799 Dipped in blood. 00:31:12.799 --> 00:31:15.619 And the armies of heaven. 00:31:16.119 --> 00:31:17.419 Arrayed in fine linen. 00:31:17.619 --> 00:31:18.319 White and pure. 00:31:18.419 --> 00:31:19.440 Will follow him. 00:31:19.720 --> 00:31:20.720 On white horses. 00:31:22.200 --> 00:31:23.480 From his mouth. 00:31:23.579 --> 00:31:25.019 Will come a sharp sword. 00:31:25.079 --> 00:31:26.359 With which to strike down. 00:31:26.419 --> 00:31:26.859 The nations. 00:31:27.720 --> 00:31:28.980 And he will rule them. 00:31:29.059 --> 00:31:30.039 With the rod of iron. 00:31:31.180 --> 00:31:32.399 On his robe. 00:31:32.460 --> 00:31:33.480 And on his thigh. 00:31:33.579 --> 00:31:34.579 He has a name written. 00:31:35.240 --> 00:31:36.339 King of kings. 00:31:36.700 --> 00:31:38.119 And lord of lords. 00:31:38.119 --> 00:31:38.339 King of kings. 00:31:43.099 --> 00:31:44.379 That's the glorious. 00:31:44.379 --> 00:31:45.479 Warrior king. 00:31:45.579 --> 00:31:46.559 That we serve. 00:31:47.279 --> 00:31:48.059 And when he comes. 00:31:48.259 --> 00:31:48.659 He says. 00:31:48.759 --> 00:31:49.299 The beast. 00:31:49.439 --> 00:31:50.459 And the kings of the earth. 00:31:50.539 --> 00:31:51.219 With their armies. 00:31:51.399 --> 00:31:51.799 Will gather. 00:31:51.899 --> 00:31:53.419 To make war against him. 00:31:54.000 --> 00:31:55.719 But he will defeat them. 00:31:56.039 --> 00:31:57.059 And throw the beast. 00:31:57.119 --> 00:31:58.079 And the false prophet. 00:31:58.339 --> 00:31:59.379 Who had deceived the nations. 00:31:59.479 --> 00:32:00.539 Into the lake of fire. 00:32:00.599 --> 00:32:01.739 That burns with sulfur. 00:32:03.799 --> 00:32:04.799 And he will. 00:32:05.039 --> 00:32:06.279 Says in revelation 20. 00:32:06.279 --> 00:32:07.579 He sees the dragon. 00:32:09.519 --> 00:32:10.559 That dragon. 00:32:11.220 --> 00:32:12.339 That ancient serpent. 00:32:12.339 --> 00:32:13.240 Who is the devil. 00:32:13.420 --> 00:32:13.940 And Satan. 00:32:15.700 --> 00:32:17.579 Who deceived the nations. 00:32:18.279 --> 00:32:19.399 Made many perish. 00:32:20.139 --> 00:32:21.579 Who accused us. 00:32:21.639 --> 00:32:22.619 The saints of the Lord. 00:32:22.740 --> 00:32:24.000 Day and night. 00:32:24.460 --> 00:32:25.980 And never let us rest. 00:32:28.039 --> 00:32:29.279 Our lord Jesus. 00:32:30.119 --> 00:32:31.160 Our warrior king. 00:32:31.259 --> 00:32:32.079 Will seize. 00:32:32.279 --> 00:32:32.920 And throw. 00:32:33.339 --> 00:32:34.500 Into the lake of fire. 00:32:34.579 --> 00:32:34.960 And sulfur. 00:32:35.139 --> 00:32:35.980 Forever and ever. 00:32:36.279 --> 00:32:39.920 In this way. 00:32:40.019 --> 00:32:41.599 Our warrior king. 00:32:41.720 --> 00:32:42.579 Will subdue. 00:32:42.579 --> 00:32:43.700 All of his enemies. 00:32:44.359 --> 00:32:45.079 And establish. 00:32:45.359 --> 00:32:45.899 Perfect. 00:32:46.399 --> 00:32:47.039 Eternal. 00:32:47.779 --> 00:32:48.180 Peace. 00:32:51.960 --> 00:32:53.160 And in doing so. 00:32:53.220 --> 00:32:53.599 He says. 00:32:53.700 --> 00:32:54.099 He will. 00:32:54.779 --> 00:32:55.480 Wipe away. 00:32:55.619 --> 00:32:56.480 Every tear. 00:32:56.599 --> 00:32:57.259 From our eyes. 00:32:58.059 --> 00:32:58.740 And death. 00:32:58.940 --> 00:32:59.839 Shall be no more. 00:33:00.660 --> 00:33:00.899 Neither. 00:33:01.119 --> 00:33:02.059 Shall there be mourning. 00:33:02.200 --> 00:33:02.839 Nor crying. 00:33:02.960 --> 00:33:03.559 Nor pain. 00:33:03.559 --> 00:33:04.099 Anymore. 00:33:04.099 --> 00:33:05.799 For the former things. 00:33:05.799 --> 00:33:06.899 Have passed away. 00:33:12.639 --> 00:33:14.199 I hope you look forward to that. 00:33:14.279 --> 00:33:14.740 As I do. 00:33:18.839 --> 00:33:20.219 We as God's people. 00:33:20.459 --> 00:33:21.279 Have already seen. 00:33:21.419 --> 00:33:22.439 The end of this war. 00:33:23.259 --> 00:33:24.279 Because Christ. 00:33:24.419 --> 00:33:25.299 Has already won. 00:33:25.500 --> 00:33:26.279 The decisive. 00:33:26.719 --> 00:33:27.059 Battle. 00:33:27.179 --> 00:33:28.000 That guarantees. 00:33:28.219 --> 00:33:28.980 The outcome. 00:33:30.399 --> 00:33:31.480 Through his death. 00:33:31.519 --> 00:33:32.039 And resurrection. 00:33:32.039 --> 00:33:37.079 Jesus has already bound. 00:33:37.079 --> 00:33:38.220 The strong man. 00:33:38.319 --> 00:33:38.619 Satan. 00:33:38.619 --> 00:33:39.299 And he's now. 00:33:39.480 --> 00:33:40.500 Plundering his house. 00:33:40.579 --> 00:33:41.339 And that is why. 00:33:41.559 --> 00:33:42.059 We see. 00:33:42.220 --> 00:33:43.359 From all over the nations. 00:33:43.480 --> 00:33:44.519 People coming to faith. 00:33:44.559 --> 00:33:45.639 In our Lord Jesus Christ. 00:33:49.899 --> 00:33:50.740 Colossians 2. 00:33:50.740 --> 00:33:51.559 13 to 15. 00:33:51.559 --> 00:33:52.000 And he's now. 00:33:52.000 --> 00:33:52.079 He's now. 00:33:52.079 --> 00:33:52.480 He's now. 00:33:52.480 --> 00:33:52.500 He's now. 00:33:52.500 --> 00:33:53.079 He's now. 00:33:53.079 --> 00:33:53.559 He's now. 00:33:53.559 --> 00:33:54.160 He's now. 00:33:54.160 --> 00:33:55.400 He's now. 00:33:55.400 --> 00:33:56.079 He's now. 00:33:56.079 --> 00:33:56.480 He's now. 00:33:56.480 --> 00:33:57.079 He's now. 00:33:57.079 --> 00:33:57.420 And you. 00:33:57.420 --> 00:33:58.099 Who were dead. 00:33:58.099 --> 00:33:59.079 In your trespasses. 00:33:59.079 --> 00:34:00.039 And the uncircumcision. 00:34:00.039 --> 00:34:00.779 Of your flesh. 00:34:01.160 --> 00:34:02.380 God made alive. 00:34:02.380 --> 00:34:03.180 Together with him. 00:34:03.259 --> 00:34:04.019 Having forgiven us. 00:34:04.019 --> 00:34:05.160 All our trespasses. 00:34:05.579 --> 00:34:07.400 By canceling the record of debt. 00:34:07.420 --> 00:34:08.480 That stood against us. 00:34:08.519 --> 00:34:09.900 With its legal demands. 00:34:10.900 --> 00:34:12.019 This he set aside. 00:34:12.139 --> 00:34:13.179 Nailing it to the cross. 00:34:13.380 --> 00:34:14.739 He disarmed the rulers. 00:34:14.739 --> 00:34:15.440 And authorities. 00:34:15.639 --> 00:34:17.099 And put them to open shame. 00:34:17.420 --> 00:34:19.079 By triumphing over them. 00:34:19.159 --> 00:34:19.960 In him. 00:34:20.739 --> 00:34:22.879 Due to our sins. 00:34:23.039 --> 00:34:24.399 Due to our trespasses. 00:34:24.579 --> 00:34:25.799 We had a record of debt. 00:34:25.919 --> 00:34:27.479 That stood against us. 00:34:27.659 --> 00:34:29.479 And because of that debt. 00:34:29.539 --> 00:34:30.719 And its legal demands. 00:34:30.959 --> 00:34:32.279 The spiritual authorities. 00:34:32.399 --> 00:34:33.319 The evil powers. 00:34:33.599 --> 00:34:35.279 Had sway over us. 00:34:35.639 --> 00:34:36.679 Had authority. 00:34:37.279 --> 00:34:38.559 Power over us. 00:34:39.239 --> 00:34:39.959 But Jesus. 00:34:40.199 --> 00:34:41.419 In dying for our sins. 00:34:41.419 --> 00:34:42.119 On the cross. 00:34:42.219 --> 00:34:43.559 Nailed that debt. 00:34:43.679 --> 00:34:44.359 To the cross. 00:34:44.939 --> 00:34:45.759 Canceled it. 00:34:46.139 --> 00:34:47.059 Set it aside. 00:34:47.199 --> 00:34:47.559 So that. 00:34:47.859 --> 00:34:48.119 No. 00:34:48.219 --> 00:34:49.059 None of these powers. 00:34:49.179 --> 00:34:49.679 Can have. 00:34:49.959 --> 00:34:50.639 Hold sway. 00:34:50.739 --> 00:34:51.259 Over us. 00:34:51.319 --> 00:34:51.919 Anymore. 00:34:52.500 --> 00:34:53.719 So that we are free. 00:34:54.419 --> 00:34:55.259 We are redeemed. 00:34:55.319 --> 00:34:56.079 As God's people. 00:34:59.659 --> 00:35:01.659 He disarmed them. 00:35:02.399 --> 00:35:03.439 Isn't that a wonderful phrase? 00:35:03.899 --> 00:35:04.699 He took away. 00:35:04.699 --> 00:35:05.500 All their weapons. 00:35:10.139 --> 00:35:11.239 The intense. 00:35:11.479 --> 00:35:12.479 Spiritual warfare. 00:35:12.479 --> 00:35:13.479 That we are. 00:35:13.799 --> 00:35:15.119 Currently engaged in. 00:35:15.899 --> 00:35:16.959 The battles that. 00:35:17.419 --> 00:35:18.500 Battles for holiness. 00:35:18.500 --> 00:35:20.280 The battles for obedience. 00:35:20.280 --> 00:35:20.340 The battles for obedience. 00:35:20.340 --> 00:35:21.059 And faith. 00:35:21.139 --> 00:35:21.820 That we fight. 00:35:22.019 --> 00:35:23.199 Every single day. 00:35:23.300 --> 00:35:23.880 As Christians. 00:35:24.179 --> 00:35:25.300 With the course of this world. 00:35:25.480 --> 00:35:26.579 With the flesh. 00:35:26.820 --> 00:35:28.760 And with the prince of the power of the air. 00:35:28.820 --> 00:35:29.840 This battle that we fight. 00:35:30.019 --> 00:35:32.960 It has already been won by Jesus. 00:35:33.179 --> 00:35:34.280 On the cross. 00:35:36.019 --> 00:35:37.420 And he will soon. 00:35:37.800 --> 00:35:38.699 Very soon. 00:35:39.699 --> 00:35:40.960 Bring this victory. 00:35:40.960 --> 00:35:41.960 Into full fruition. 00:35:41.960 --> 00:35:42.000 Into full fruition. 00:35:45.740 --> 00:35:47.579 If you want to find rest in God. 00:35:47.639 --> 00:35:48.639 In the midst of your troubles. 00:35:48.639 --> 00:35:50.740 You must come and behold. 00:35:51.059 --> 00:35:52.220 The works of the Lord. 00:35:52.219 --> 00:35:55.939 You have to see. 00:35:56.139 --> 00:35:56.879 You have to remember. 00:35:56.879 --> 00:35:58.199 What God has done for you. 00:35:59.099 --> 00:36:00.739 When you behold the cross. 00:36:00.819 --> 00:36:01.839 When you behold Jesus. 00:36:02.279 --> 00:36:03.879 You see the Lord's sovereignty. 00:36:04.159 --> 00:36:05.539 You see the Lord's mercy. 00:36:05.899 --> 00:36:07.279 You see the Lord's love. 00:36:08.319 --> 00:36:09.939 And no matter how much. 00:36:10.039 --> 00:36:12.099 Your life might seem like a failure. 00:36:12.500 --> 00:36:13.319 And a defeat. 00:36:13.759 --> 00:36:14.899 When you look at the cross. 00:36:14.980 --> 00:36:16.480 You can see your victory. 00:36:16.480 --> 00:36:18.259 And triumph in Jesus Christ. 00:36:18.260 --> 00:36:22.920 If you yearn for this rest of God. 00:36:23.860 --> 00:36:26.780 Come and behold the cross of Jesus Christ. 00:36:29.540 --> 00:36:30.740 This is the only way. 00:36:30.820 --> 00:36:32.480 We can also obey that second command. 00:36:32.600 --> 00:36:33.280 In verse 10. 00:36:33.560 --> 00:36:34.400 Be still. 00:36:35.000 --> 00:36:36.620 And know that I am God. 00:36:38.080 --> 00:36:39.240 As human beings. 00:36:39.340 --> 00:36:40.220 We must be still. 00:36:40.360 --> 00:36:42.380 And know that only God is God. 00:36:43.480 --> 00:36:44.440 Be still. 00:36:44.440 --> 00:36:48.960 It is a very strong command. 00:36:51.039 --> 00:36:52.900 Joshua chapter 10 verse 6. 00:36:53.079 --> 00:36:54.420 When the man of Gibeon. 00:36:54.860 --> 00:36:55.900 Sent for help. 00:36:56.420 --> 00:36:57.240 To Joshua. 00:36:57.380 --> 00:36:58.380 Because they had a covenant. 00:36:59.240 --> 00:37:00.019 An alliance. 00:37:01.059 --> 00:37:02.059 They say this to him. 00:37:02.159 --> 00:37:04.500 Do not relax your hand. 00:37:05.019 --> 00:37:05.840 From your servants. 00:37:06.019 --> 00:37:06.780 Come up to us. 00:37:06.880 --> 00:37:07.920 Quickly and save us. 00:37:07.960 --> 00:37:08.559 And help us. 00:37:08.880 --> 00:37:10.480 For all the kings of the Amorites. 00:37:10.539 --> 00:37:11.420 Who dwell in the hill country. 00:37:11.480 --> 00:37:12.460 Are gathered against us. 00:37:12.460 --> 00:37:13.619 The word relax. 00:37:13.619 --> 00:37:14.299 Relax. 00:37:14.299 --> 00:37:16.420 Here it means to let go. 00:37:16.659 --> 00:37:17.179 Release. 00:37:17.799 --> 00:37:18.839 That's the same word. 00:37:18.900 --> 00:37:19.639 That's translated here. 00:37:19.739 --> 00:37:20.559 As be still. 00:37:23.279 --> 00:37:25.599 Similarly in Judges 11 verse 37. 00:37:25.719 --> 00:37:28.159 When Jephthah's daughter says to Jephthah. 00:37:28.859 --> 00:37:30.480 Let this thing be done for me. 00:37:30.659 --> 00:37:33.059 Leave me alone for two months. 00:37:33.599 --> 00:37:34.559 That phrase. 00:37:34.679 --> 00:37:36.019 Leave me alone. 00:37:36.639 --> 00:37:39.079 Is a translation of the same Hebrew word. 00:37:39.139 --> 00:37:40.019 That is rendered here. 00:37:40.019 --> 00:37:41.440 Be still. 00:37:43.619 --> 00:37:45.539 That means. 00:37:46.039 --> 00:37:49.839 That command means to seize and release. 00:37:53.500 --> 00:37:56.059 What are the things in your life. 00:37:56.619 --> 00:37:59.139 That you are holding on to tightly. 00:38:01.019 --> 00:38:02.039 Anxiously. 00:38:05.359 --> 00:38:07.900 Things that you are unwilling. 00:38:08.619 --> 00:38:09.880 To release. 00:38:09.880 --> 00:38:12.519 To entrust. 00:38:19.760 --> 00:38:20.640 Your future. 00:38:21.640 --> 00:38:23.260 Your children. 00:38:25.340 --> 00:38:26.720 Your vocation. 00:38:28.920 --> 00:38:29.960 Career. 00:38:32.340 --> 00:38:33.860 Your relationships. 00:38:33.860 --> 00:38:34.240 Be still. 00:38:34.240 --> 00:38:35.200 Be still. 00:38:35.200 --> 00:38:35.240 Be still. 00:38:35.240 --> 00:38:37.920 To relax our hands. 00:38:37.920 --> 00:38:41.960 To relax our hands. 00:38:42.140 --> 00:38:43.680 And let go of our clenched fists. 00:38:44.180 --> 00:38:45.519 To leave it be. 00:38:45.519 --> 00:38:52.460 God commands us to humble ourselves. 00:38:52.460 --> 00:38:53.860 Before the mighty hand of God. 00:38:53.980 --> 00:38:56.340 Casting all of our anxieties on him. 00:38:58.519 --> 00:39:00.179 Is your heart lifted up. 00:39:00.239 --> 00:39:01.860 And your eyes raised too high. 00:39:01.920 --> 00:39:03.800 So that you are occupying yourself. 00:39:03.920 --> 00:39:05.860 With things that are too high. 00:39:05.980 --> 00:39:06.599 And wonderful. 00:39:08.519 --> 00:39:10.219 Things that are above your pay grade. 00:39:10.219 --> 00:39:13.419 Things that are outside of your control. 00:39:15.639 --> 00:39:18.799 Or have you calmed and quieted your soul. 00:39:19.219 --> 00:39:21.659 Like a weaned child with its mother. 00:39:22.619 --> 00:39:23.480 Trusting in. 00:39:23.899 --> 00:39:25.799 And relying on the Lord. 00:39:25.800 --> 00:39:33.740 Be still. 00:39:33.740 --> 00:39:35.200 And know that I am God. 00:39:37.360 --> 00:39:40.019 Only those who know that the Lord is God. 00:39:40.120 --> 00:39:41.360 Can trust him and be still. 00:39:42.580 --> 00:39:45.840 Only those who know that God's reign extends to the end of the earth. 00:39:46.220 --> 00:39:47.140 Can be still. 00:39:48.220 --> 00:39:50.100 You may have noticed that this psalm. 00:39:50.600 --> 00:39:52.120 Repeatedly mentions the earth. 00:39:52.960 --> 00:39:53.840 Verse 2 says. 00:39:53.920 --> 00:39:55.420 Though the earth gives way. 00:39:55.420 --> 00:39:56.039 And even in. 00:39:56.200 --> 00:39:58.840 So this is earth shattering upheaval. 00:39:59.280 --> 00:40:00.420 And in the midst of that. 00:40:00.500 --> 00:40:01.260 It says in verse 6. 00:40:01.380 --> 00:40:02.340 God utters his voice. 00:40:02.420 --> 00:40:03.680 The earth melts. 00:40:04.420 --> 00:40:04.780 Verse 9. 00:40:04.840 --> 00:40:07.260 He makes war cease to the end of the earth. 00:40:08.039 --> 00:40:10.940 It's because God rules over all of the earth. 00:40:11.039 --> 00:40:12.820 Even in the midst of earth shaking events. 00:40:12.940 --> 00:40:14.619 God pronounces in verse 10. 00:40:14.980 --> 00:40:15.579 Authoritatively. 00:40:15.599 --> 00:40:18.380 I will be exalted in the earth. 00:40:20.460 --> 00:40:22.619 The end of all human history. 00:40:22.760 --> 00:40:23.400 The end. 00:40:23.639 --> 00:40:24.139 The purpose. 00:40:24.139 --> 00:40:25.699 Is the goal of all of our lives. 00:40:25.699 --> 00:40:28.480 Is the exaltation of God. 00:40:31.099 --> 00:40:34.199 Isn't that our deepest longing as Christians? 00:40:34.779 --> 00:40:37.299 To see God lifted high. 00:40:37.699 --> 00:40:38.259 Glorified. 00:40:38.260 --> 00:40:38.460 God. 00:40:41.820 --> 00:40:43.380 If we live for that. 00:40:43.380 --> 00:40:45.140 Then you will not be disappointed. 00:40:45.140 --> 00:40:47.820 Because God will be exalted in the earth. 00:40:49.980 --> 00:40:52.920 And because we have already seen that finish line. 00:40:53.040 --> 00:40:55.420 And because we have already seen the end of human history. 00:40:55.420 --> 00:40:58.200 We can run with even greater endurance. 00:40:58.199 --> 00:40:59.579 And strength. 00:40:59.579 --> 00:40:59.599 And strength. 00:41:00.159 --> 00:41:01.839 While trusting in God. 00:41:01.960 --> 00:41:02.879 And resting in him. 00:41:05.759 --> 00:41:08.399 Psalm 45 concludes with this refrain. 00:41:08.539 --> 00:41:09.159 In verse 11. 00:41:09.259 --> 00:41:11.639 The Lord of hosts is with us. 00:41:11.759 --> 00:41:14.699 The God of Jacob is our fortress. 00:41:15.159 --> 00:41:17.519 This chorus appears twice in this song. 00:41:17.719 --> 00:41:18.500 Verse 7. 00:41:18.579 --> 00:41:19.139 Verse 11. 00:41:19.139 --> 00:41:22.039 And he tells us that God is with us. 00:41:22.779 --> 00:41:24.859 That phrase with us. 00:41:25.199 --> 00:41:27.179 In Hebrew is imanu. 00:41:28.059 --> 00:41:30.859 Which is where we get the title for our Lord Jesus. 00:41:31.420 --> 00:41:31.960 Immanuel. 00:41:31.960 --> 00:41:36.720 It means God with us. 00:41:41.119 --> 00:41:43.019 If you have a hard time today. 00:41:43.960 --> 00:41:47.099 Believing that God really is your refuge and strength. 00:41:47.460 --> 00:41:49.300 A very present help in time of need. 00:41:49.300 --> 00:41:51.019 I urge you to look at the Lord Jesus. 00:41:51.720 --> 00:41:52.240 Immanuel. 00:41:52.579 --> 00:41:53.860 Who was born as a baby. 00:41:54.199 --> 00:41:54.980 A human baby. 00:41:55.079 --> 00:41:56.099 2,000 years ago. 00:41:57.800 --> 00:42:00.539 He came in order to be with us. 00:42:00.539 --> 00:42:04.559 In order to be tempted and to suffer as we are. 00:42:05.460 --> 00:42:08.940 And through his death to destroy the devil who has the power of death. 00:42:09.900 --> 00:42:13.279 In order to do this Jesus partook of our own flesh and blood. 00:42:15.079 --> 00:42:16.800 And because he has done this. 00:42:16.920 --> 00:42:19.259 He is merciful and compassionate. 00:42:19.500 --> 00:42:21.480 He knows our weaknesses. 00:42:22.259 --> 00:42:24.199 He is intimately familiar with it. 00:42:25.380 --> 00:42:25.940 Immanuel. 00:42:26.579 --> 00:42:28.000 God with us. 00:42:28.000 --> 00:42:32.280 We can rest securely in the midst of any trouble. 00:42:32.460 --> 00:42:35.300 Because God is our immovable fortress. 00:42:38.699 --> 00:42:41.840 The second verse of Martin Luther's hymn that I mentioned at the beginning. 00:42:42.019 --> 00:42:43.280 The mighty fortress is our God. 00:42:43.360 --> 00:42:44.079 Goes like this. 00:42:45.480 --> 00:42:47.920 Did we in our own strength confide. 00:42:48.280 --> 00:42:50.159 Our striving would be losing. 00:42:51.159 --> 00:42:53.659 We're not the right man on our side. 00:42:54.000 --> 00:42:56.039 The man of God's own choosing. 00:42:56.039 --> 00:42:58.840 You ask who that may be. 00:42:59.400 --> 00:43:00.420 Christ Jesus. 00:43:00.679 --> 00:43:01.400 It is he. 00:43:02.079 --> 00:43:03.340 Lord of hosts. 00:43:03.460 --> 00:43:04.119 His name. 00:43:04.579 --> 00:43:06.159 From age to age. 00:43:06.360 --> 00:43:06.880 The same. 00:43:07.559 --> 00:43:09.779 And he must win the battle. 00:43:11.679 --> 00:43:12.239 Amen. 00:43:14.440 --> 00:43:15.340 Heavenly Father. 00:43:15.460 --> 00:43:15.900 We pray. 00:43:16.820 --> 00:43:17.860 That you would breathe. 00:43:17.920 --> 00:43:18.759 That you would breathe. 00:43:18.880 --> 00:43:20.420 Fresh faith into us. 00:43:20.420 --> 00:43:23.559 So that we might make you. 00:43:23.680 --> 00:43:24.559 The Lord of hosts. 00:43:24.680 --> 00:43:25.500 Our refuge. 00:43:26.860 --> 00:43:28.579 That in the midst of all our troubles. 00:43:29.099 --> 00:43:30.519 We might seize. 00:43:31.240 --> 00:43:31.720 Release. 00:43:33.000 --> 00:43:33.780 Be still. 00:43:35.220 --> 00:43:35.800 And know. 00:43:36.900 --> 00:43:38.000 That you are God. 00:43:41.420 --> 00:43:42.720 In Jesus name we pray. 00:43:43.559 --> 00:43:43.840 Amen. 00:43:43.840 --> 00:43:43.940 Amen. 00:43:50.420 --> 00:44:16.000 Amen. 00:44:19.320 --> 00:44:19.840 Amen.