MARCH 5
Psalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
Every time I visit a hospice patient for the first time, I bring a lap quilt made by my friends at the local Baptist Church. They’ve been making these quilts for years, and by now, I’ve handed out over 150 of them. The patients are always grateful, and these quilts, along with other small acts of kindness, bring a little light into some of the darkest moments.
Each quilt has a patch sewn in the corner with this verse from Psalm 46. The words of this verse are relevant to everyone, but they carry special significance for those nearing the end of their lives. Where do you find refuge, your safe place? There is no better refuge than in God—our Creator who gave His life to save us. Safe in His arms, we need not fear. Where do you find strength when your own resources are exhausted, when pain and discomfort threaten to steal away your hope and determination? Only God’s grace can provide the strength we need in those moments.
One patient stands out in my memory. She was a neighbor and a dear friend who spent 20 months in hospice. A former sheep rancher, she was fiercely independent and initially uninterested in spiritual matters. Week after week, as her strength faded, we talked more and more about Jesus. Eventually, just before her passing, a hospice coworker was visiting when the conversation turned to heaven. My friend pointed to the patch on her quilt. She was looking to the One who is “a very present help in trouble,” trusting that He would bring her safely home in His perfect timing. She passed away having faith in Jesus. But He’s a very present help, not just for those dying, but for all of us.
The nearness of God is the best antidote for the fears of this world!
Application Questions: When facing challenges, how can you intentionally seek God as your refuge and place your trust in Him? In what areas of your life do you need to rely more on God as a “very present help” in times of trouble?
LookingtoJesus 