Psalms 46 God Is Our Refuge

Upon alamoth--most probably denotes the treble, or part sung by female voices, the word meaning "virgins"; And which was sung with some appropriately keyed instrument (compare 1ch 15:19-21; See on ps 6:1, title). The theme may be stated in luther's well-known words, "a mighty fortress is our God." the great deliverance (2ki 19:35; Isa 37:36) may have occasioned its composition

1

refuge — literally, "a place of trust" (Ps 2:12). strength — (Ps 18:2). present help — literally, "a help He has been found exceedingly." trouble — as in Ps 18:7.

2,3

The most violent civil commotions are illustrated by the greatest physical commotions.

3

swelling — well represents the pride and haughtiness of insolent foes.

4

God's favor is denoted by a river (compare Ps 36:8; Zec 14:8; Re 22:1). city of God, the holy place — His earthly residence, Jerusalem and the temple (compare Ps 2:6; 3:4; 20:2; 48:2, &c.). God's favor, like a river whose waters are conducted in channels, is distributed to all parts of His Church. most High — denoting His supremacy (Ps 17:2).

5

right early — literally, "at the turn of morning," or change from night to day, a critical time (Ps 30:5; compare Isa 37:36).

6

(Compare Ps 46:2). earth melted — all powers dissolved by His mere word (Ps 75:3; Ho 2:22).

7

with us — on our side; His presence is terror to our enemies, safety to us. refuge — high place (Ps 9:9; compare also Ps 24:6, 10).

8

what desolations — literally, "who hath put desolations," destroying our enemies.

9

The usual weapons of war (Ps 7:12), as well as those using them, are brought to an end.

10

Be still, &c. — literally, "Leave off to oppose Me and vex My people. I am over all for their safety." (Compare Isa 2:11; Eph 1:22).