24 July 2005

The Presence of God that brings peace

The Presence of God that brings peace
Text: Psalm 46

Series:
An Interactive Faith

Message Notes

THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF LIFE THAT TROUBLES THE HEART

1. The uncertainties of life

2. The uncontrollable natural diasters

“Even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though the waters roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with its swelling.” Psalm 46:2 – 3

3. The continuous wars among nations

“The nations raged, the kingdoms were moved…” Psalm 46:6

UNDERSTANDING THE PEACE THAT COMES FROM THE PRESENCE OF GOD

1. A promise of help from God

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1

“…God shall help her, just as the break of dawn.” Psalm 46:5

a) A source of refuge to His people

b) A source of strength to His people

c) A source of help in times of trouble

d) Assurance of help from God

2. A promise of His presence to His people

“There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High. God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved…” Psalm 46:4 – 5

“The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.” Psalm 46:7

a) A sense of peace (As compared with the boisterous waves)

b) A sense of gladness

c) A sense of security

d) Assurance of preservation

AN INVITATION TO EXPERIENCE THE PRESENCE OF GOD THAT BRINGS PEACE TO THE HEART

“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” Psalm 46:10

(To the acronym “Still”)

1. Stillness of heart and mind

2. Think of God (Only if we have knowledge of Him and His promises!)

3. Interact in prayer

4. Let go of the things that trouble the heart

5. Latch on to God’s promises (The promise of His presence)

“The LORD of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge.” Psalm 46:11