A MIGHTY FORTRESS

The censors are at work.  Facebook would not allow me to post a link to this blog.  It doesn't meet their standards!

          As I've watched recent events and as we approach what could be a pivotal week in the history of the United States, I have been led, at the last minute, to change this week's hymn choice to one which I think many of us may need.  I have shared this one twice before in this blog, once on November 3, 2008 and again on October 29, 2017.  I have decided to share once again the blog from 2008.

          Many of us are very alarmed about what could be a radically different direction for our country following this election.  We are concerned about a possible ultraliberal future which will increase abortion, promote nontraditional marriages, form a liberal justice system, and establish new limits on our freedom to worship and express Biblical morality.  And as we face this uncertain future, I am reminded of the scripture that spoke so clearly to Martin Luther when he faced uncertain times and attempts to limit his freedom to speak the truth many centuries ago. "God is our Refuge and Strength, a very present Help in trouble." Psalm 46:1.  

          In 1529 he published his famous hymn which has since encouraged saints throughout the centuries.  So if you too are concerned today, meditate on these words.  Hopefully you will be reminded and encouraged that God is still in control and is our Refuge and Strength.

1.     A mighty fortress is our God, 

a bulwark never failing;

Our helper He, amid the flood 

of mortal ills prevailing:

For still our ancient foe 

doth seek to work us woe;

His craft and power are great, and, 

armed with cruel hate,

On earth is not his equal.

2.     Did we in our own strength confide, 

our striving would be losing;

Were not the right Man on our side, 

The Man of God's own choosing:

Dost ask who that may be? 

Christ Jesus, it is He;

Lord Sabaoth, His Name, 

from age to age the same,

And He must win the battle.

3.     And though this world, with devils filled, 

would threaten to undo us,

We will not fear, 

for God hath willed His truth 

to triumph through us:

The Prince of Darkness grim, 

we tremble not for him;

His rage we can endure, for lo, 

his doom is sure,

One little word shall fell him.

4.     That word above all earthly powers, 

no thanks to them, abideth;

The Spirit and the gifts 

are ours through Him 

Who with us sideth:

Let goods and kindred go, 

this mortal life also;

The body they may kill: 

God's truth abideth still,

His kingdom is forever.

          So friends, as believers we do face difficult times, but we know how it all will end.  Take heart my friend, with God we are on the victory side.   Join me in praying for our country and for the salvation of its leaders.  And join me in claiming the Scripture that Luther claimed when he faced uncertain times many years ago.   "God is our Refuge and Strength, a very present Help in trouble." Psalm 46:1.  May He be your vision, your guide, your strength, your confidence and your peace in the days ahead.

 Listen to it here.   FORTRESS