Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 46

This psalm of Zion celebrates God's special presence in Jerusalem (see also Psalms 48, 76, 87, 122). It encourages trust in the Lord because the people of Zion have his protection.

Even during natural disasters, the citizens of Zion show no fear.

According to Alamoth (“maidens”; see also study note on 1 Chronicles 15:20). In worship, a choir or a group of instrumentalists performed this hymn.

The strong city, where God lives, protects its people. They enjoy the river flowing within the city. This river is calm, unlike the turbulent waters (representing the powers of the nations) outside the city.

This river provides life, renewal, and healing like the streams flowing through Eden (Psalm 36:8–9; see Genesis 2:10; Ezekiel 47; Revelation 22:2).

when morning dawns: In the ancient Near East, enemies attacked cities during the day. Even in dangerous times, the Lord will protect the place where his name is.

People and nations live in chaos. They take every chance to benefit themselves (Psalm 83:2), stay busy with many things (39:6), and fill the world with noise. They are unstable and can fall apart, unlike the city of God (compare Psalm 15:5). But when the godly are troubled, they cry out to God for help (Psalm 42:5, 11; 43:5; 55:17).

• This refrain reminds us who the God of Zion is.

• with us: Hebrew 'immanu, part of the name Immanuel, meaning “God with us” (Isaiah 7:14; 8:8; Matthew 1:23).

This invitation to trust in the Lord offers a perspective on God’s interactions with human powers.

Israel witnessed the Lord's amazing works in the wilderness (Psalms 107:24; 111:2), but the wicked, who do not care about them (28:5), end up desolate (73:19).

• A message directly from the Lord confirms the truth of the psalmist’s vision (see also Psalms 12:5–6; 32:8).

• know that I am God: The Lord will fulfill his promises (Isaiah 45:3; 49:23; 60:16).

• God will be honored (Psalm 47; Isaiah 6:1); he will judge the nations and save his people (see Psalms 57:11; 89:13; 108:5–6; 118:16).