FOR GOD IS OUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed. Our God is able. His grace is never so real as in seasons of trouble, sickness, or death. Then we need something which nothing else can supply but God. God is our help in trouble. He helps us to bear it. He helps us to improve it. He helps us through it. His choicest communications and sweetest manifestations are freely given in times of trial and distress. Believer, thy God is thy refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. He is never nearer than when you fancy that He stands afar off; He is never kinder than when you think He hath shut up His lovingkindness in displeasure. Do not doubt His love. Do not mistake His chastening. Do not listen to His foes. Do not forget His word. But remember, if trouble comes, grace comes with it; and your God is present to help you rise above it and to derive a blessing from it. Believe when you cannot see. Trust when you do not feel. Wait when God is silent. Your good is consulted in every trouble, and your God will be glorified by every trial. "The Lord of hosts is with you, the God of Jacob is your refuge: therefore fear not neither be dismayed."

For Meditation:
Jehovah, Thy refuge and rock,
In trouble, His help shall supply;
Though earth be removed with a shock,
Still God, thy Redeemer, is nigh.