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Psalm 125:1-5 We Shall not be Shaken

by fol CHURCH on November 22, 2021

There is much ‘shaking of the earth’ around us right now. We have Covid, energy crisis, economic uncertainty, potential shortages of goods, threats to trade and economic prosperity, climate change realities – the pundits would have us fear a winter of discontent. Of course, in the ‘real’ but more hidden world of countries from Eritrea to Afghanistan and in the refugee camps around the world, not least just across the Channel, the situation is all together more life-threatening. The world can feel as if it is in the grip of evil teetering on the brink of self-destruction.

How often I wonder has this psalm been used by our forebears in times of crisis, desperation and fear? Perhaps the writer to the Hebrews was thinking of this psalm when he wrote ‘“Once more I (God) will shake not only the earth but also the heavens”. The words “once more” indicate the removing of what can be shaken – that is created things – so that what cannot be shaken may remain”’.  When looking ahead to just such a time as the times in which we live, Jesus warns us that, as wickedness increases, “the love of most will grow cold.” (Matt 24:12). Note the word ‘most’. It implies that in an uncertain world even some of us, dear reader, will face the challenge of our love for God (and people) diminishing. Also note the word ‘grow’ which implies a gradual, by degrees, diminishing of our love for Him. 

Jesus goes on to say: “but those who stands firm to the end will be saved.” (Matt 24:13). The psalmist shows us how. He calls us to put our trust in the Lord and assures us that if we do then we shall not be shaken. Hooray! So, what helps us keep our love on fire? What builds our trust?

Time spent with Him – going for a walk with Jesus, studying His word, and singing out our worship.

Relying on Him – choosing to depend upon Him rather than always coming up with our own solutions.

Uniting with other Christians – meeting together, don’t give up on church – it’s His body!

Surrender to Him – not having all your ducks lined up in a row all the time!

Testimony – remember and declare the good God has done in your life.

 

 

 

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Thank you, Jesus, that you surround me both now and for evermore. You are trustworthy.  In every situation and circumstance of life help me to trust you.

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