Psalm 46 —
This week’s psalm is the inspiration of Luther’s great hymn of the Reformation
“A Mighty Fortress is Our God” This Psalm may have been written following
Sennacherib’s attack on Jerusalem (2 Chronicles 32), some natural disaster, or
in anticipation of the events heralding Messiah’s coming. Vv.4-5 Have a
parallel in Revelation 22:1-5 where the ideal is perfectly realized. The
psalmist glories in God’s presence with His people and His real and
unassailable protection (Vv. 1, 4-5, 7, 11)
This psalm
of David expresses complete confidence in God, no matter the circumstance. It
depicts scenes of turmoil: natural disasters (vv. 2, 3), political persecution
(v. 6a), and even the end of days (v. 6b). The one who trusts in God can
withstand such troubles, and be still and quiet, for God is our refuge and
strength, a very present help in trouble.
Psalm 46 – The LORD’s Protection and Power
The title of this psalm is To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of the sons
of Korah. A Song for Alamoth. These sons of Korah were Levites, from the
family of Kohath. By David’s time it seems they served in the musical aspect of
the temple worship (2 Chronicles 20:19).
An ode upon Alamoth, or
concerning the virgins: possibly meaning a choir of singing girls.
Some Bible
scholars have wondered if Alamoth referred to a high-pitched stringed
instrument as suggested by 1 Chronicles 15:20.
Comment on
this great song of confidence seems almost unnecessary so powerfully has it
taken hold on the heart of humanity, and so perfectly does it set forth the
experience of trusting souls in all ages and tumultuous times.
Luther, when in greatest distress, was wont to call for this psalm, saying, Let us sing the forty-sixth psalm in concert; and then let the devil do his worst.[2]
Collect for Psalm 46: Lord God, our refuge and strength, when the restless powers of this world and the waters of hell rise up against your holy city, watch over it and keep it safe. By the river that glows from the throne of the Lamb, purify this New Jerusalem as your chosen dwelling, for you are with us, our stronghold, now and forever.[3]
[1] Christ
the King, © Ed Riojas, Higher Things
[3] Collect
for Psalm 46, For All the Saints, A Prayer Book For and By the Church, Vol. II
© 1995 The American Lutheran Publicity Bureau, Delhi, NY
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