Just as the Psalms (e.g. 22:1 and 16:10,11) foreshadowed events and sayings in the life of our Lord, Psalms 46 and 47 portray the awesome events of his second coming. The overview of those events in these Psalms show how vital it is for us “to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end … imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises” (Hebrews 6:11,12).

The opening of Psalm 46 should be memorized and become part of our daily thoughts; “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way … though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble …” (verses 1-3). “The nations rage, the kingdoms totter …” (verse 6). But in the midst of this awesome upheaval, “… the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High (is seen) … God will help her when morning dawns” (verses 4,5).

Until that dawning, the darkness of human depravity and folly will dominate life on earth. But Christ’s return will bring a sober reflection on God’s judgments: “Come behold the works of the LORD, how he has brought desolations on the earth, He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth …” (verses 8,9). How wonderful! How awesome! But as it becomes more and more evident that God’s judgments are starting today how vital it will be that “God is our refuge and strength” and for us to “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations …” (verse 10).

At that time, by God’s grace, may we be part of the action described in Psalm 47; “Clap your hands, all peoples! Shout to God with loud songs of joy! For the LORD, the Most High is to be feared, a great king over the earth. He subdued peoples under us, and nations …” (verses 1-3). If God is truly our refuge now – then, by His grace, that will be our experience.