Breathe

I once heard “selah” described as breathing and especially love that image alongside Psalm 46. Deep breath in, deep breath out. Even as the waters rise and the mountains fall, breathe. Even as fear seeks to overwhelm you, breathe. Even as nations crumble, breathe. Even as He is exalted, breathe. Deep breath in, deep breath out.

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear. Though the earth give way, and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, and the mountains shake with their surging. [though the isolation creeps in, and the emotions seek to overwhelm me; though I’m surrounded by reminders of brokenness and fail to be brave anymore.]

Selah.

There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her; she will not fall. God will help her at break of day. Nations crumble and kingdoms fall, he lifts his voice, the earth melts. [see His almighty power over the earth.] The Lord Almighty is with us, the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Selah.

Come and see the works of the Lord, the desolations he has brought on the earth. He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear, he burns the shield with fire. [He is strong.] Be still and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. The Lord Almighty is with us, the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Selah.