Therefore we will not fearThis phrase emphasizes the confidence and trust believers have in God, regardless of circumstances. The word "therefore" connects this assurance to the preceding verses, which speak of God as a refuge and strength. This reflects a common biblical theme where faith in God dispels fear (
Isaiah 41:10,
Philippians 4:6-7). The absence of fear is a hallmark of faith, as seen in the lives of biblical figures like David (
Psalm 23:4) and Daniel (
Daniel 6:10-23).
though the earth is transformed
The imagery of the earth being transformed suggests cataclysmic changes, possibly alluding to natural disasters or end-times events. This transformation can be seen as a metaphor for upheaval and chaos in life. Biblically, the earth's transformation is often associated with God's judgment or the coming of a new creation (Isaiah 24:19-20,Revelation 21:1). It underscores the transient nature of the physical world compared to the eternal nature of God.
and the mountains are toppled into the depths of the seas
Mountains in biblical literature often symbolize stability and permanence (Psalm 125:1-2). Their toppling signifies a dramatic and unsettling event, highlighting the power of God over creation. This imagery can be linked to prophetic visions of the end times, where cosmic disturbances are described (Revelation 6:14,Nahum 1:5). It also serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty, as seen when Jesus calms the storm (Mark 4:39), demonstrating His authority over nature.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
The Sons of KorahThe authors of
Psalm 46, a group of Levitical singers and musicians who played a significant role in temple worship.
2.
JerusalemWhile not directly mentioned in this verse, the context of
Psalm 46 often relates to God's protection over Jerusalem, symbolizing His presence and protection over His people.
3.
Mountains and SeasSymbolic elements representing stability and chaos, respectively. Mountains often symbolize strength and permanence, while seas can represent chaos and danger.
Teaching Points
God's Sovereignty Over CreationThe imagery of mountains and seas highlights God's control over the natural world. Believers can trust in His sovereignty even when the world seems unstable.
Fearlessness in FaithThe verse encourages believers to live without fear, trusting in God's protection and presence, regardless of external circumstances.
Stability in God's PresenceJust as mountains are seen as stable and unmovable, God's presence provides a firm foundation for believers amidst life's uncertainties.
Trust in Times of ChangeThe transformation of the earth symbolizes change and upheaval. Believers are called to trust God through life's transitions and challenges.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Psalm 46:2?
2.How does Psalm 46:2 encourage trust in God during life's challenges?
3.What does "we will not fear" teach about faith in God's protection?
4.How can Psalm 46:2 strengthen your response to personal or global crises?
5.Which other Bible verses emphasize God's presence during natural disasters or turmoil?
6.How can you apply the message of Psalm 46:2 in daily life situations?
7.How does Psalm 46:2 address fear in the face of natural disasters?
8.What historical context influenced the writing of Psalm 46:2?
9.How does Psalm 46:2 reflect God's sovereignty over creation?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Psalm 46?
11.How can the depiction of the earth “giving way” (Psalm 46:2) be reconciled with scientific evidence for stable geological processes?
12.What does "Be Still and Know I Am God" mean?
13.Why does Psalm 46 present God’s protection differently compared to other biblical passages that depict divine interventions more explicitly?
14.How do Psalms foreshadow Jesus Christ's life and mission?What Does Psalm 46:2 Mean
Therefore we will not fear• The “therefore” reaches back toPsalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble”. Because God Himself is both shelter and strength, fear loses its grip.
• Fear is a choice; confidence is a response to the certainty of God’s character.Psalm 118:6 affirms, “The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”.
•Isaiah 41:10 echoes the same assurance: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God”. These promises are not abstract poetry; they declare literal, present help from the Almighty.
• Practical takeaway:
– Memorize and speak passages likeJoshua 1:9 when anxiety rises.
– Replace “what if” scenarios with “God is” certainties.
though the earth is transformed• The psalmist imagines the very ground shifting—a picture of total upheaval. Even if creation itself changes form, God remains unchanged (Malachi 3:6).
•Hebrews 12:26-27 reminds us God will “once more…shake not only the earth, but heaven as well…so that the unshakable may remain”. In that shaking, believers stand secure because their foundation is Christ.
•Psalm 102:25-27 contrasts the perishable earth with God who “remains forever.” Our security is anchored in the eternal, not the temporal.
• Use moments of instability—job loss, cultural turmoil, personal trials—as reminders that everything visible can change, but God’s promises never will.
and the mountains are toppled into the depths of the seas• Mountains symbolize stability; seas often represent chaos. Even if the most immovable parts of creation collapse into the most turbulent places, God’s people rest fearless.
•Nahum 1:5 paints a similar scene: “The mountains quake before Him… the earth trembles at His presence”. The One who causes the quaking is the same One who shields His own.
• Jesus applied this imagery of moving mountains to faith inMatthew 17:20 andMark 11:23. He was not exaggerating; divine power truly outweighs every natural obstacle.
•Revelation 6:14 foretells a future cataclysm when “every mountain and island was moved from its place,” yet believers are simultaneously sealed and protected (Revelation 7:3-4).
• Application checklist:
– When circumstances feel like mountains crashing, rehearse God’s past faithfulness.
– Speak Scripture aloud, reminding your heart that God’s sovereignty extends over both mountains and seas.
summaryPsalm 46:2 teaches that no scenario—cosmic, cultural, or personal—can dethrone God or unsettle those who trust Him. Because He is our unchanging refuge, we refuse fear even if the ground quakes, the landscape dissolves, and the pillars of stability fall into chaos. Our confidence rests not in circumstances but in the God who reigns over them all.
(2)
Though the earth be removed.--Literally,
at the changing of the earth.Possibly with the same figure implied, which is expressed,
Psalm 102:26, of the worn-out or soiled vesture. The psalmist was thinking of the sudden convulsion of earthquake, and figures Israel fearless amid the tottering kingdoms and falling dynasties. Travellers all remark on the signs of tremendous volcanic agency in Palestine.
It is interesting to compare the heathen poet's conception of the fearlessness supplied by virtue (Hor.Ode3:3).
Verse 2. -
Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed; or,
though the earth change -
a somewhat vague expression, probably to be understood of political changes and revolutions (see ver. 6).
Andthough the mountains be carried intothe midst of the sea; rather,
and though the mountains be hurled into the heart of the seas. A metaphor for still more strange and violent disturbances and commotions. The revolutions and disturbances intended are probably those caused by the Assyrian career of conquest briefly described in
Isaiah 10:5-14;
Isaiah 37:18-27, and fully set forth in the annals of the Assyrian kings (see G. Smith's 'Eponym Canon,' pp. 106-149; and the author's 'Ancient Monarchies,' vol. 2. pp. 83-210).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Thereforeעַל־(‘al-)Preposition
Strong's 5921:Above, over, upon, againstwe will notלֹא־(lō-)Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808:Not, nofear,נִ֭ירָא(nî·rā)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common plural
Strong's 3372:To fear, to revere, caus, to frightenthough the earthאָ֑רֶץ(’ā·reṣ)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 776:Earth, landis transformedבְּהָמִ֣יר(bə·hā·mîr)Preposition-b | Verb - Hifil - Infinitive construct
Strong's 4171:To alter, to barter, to dispose ofand the mountainsהָ֝רִ֗ים(hā·rîm)Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 2022:Mountain, hill, hill countryare toppledוּבְמ֥וֹט(ū·ḇə·mō·wṭ)Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct
Strong's 4131:To waver, to slip, shake, fallinto the depthsבְּלֵ֣ב(bə·lêḇ)Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3820:The heart, the feelings, the will, the intellect, centreof the seas,יַמִּֽים׃(yam·mîm)Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 3220:A sea, the Mediterranean Sea, large river, an artifical basin
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OT Poetry: Psalm 46:2 Therefore we won't be afraid though (Psalm Ps Psa.)