Friday, November 3, 2006
Psalm 46:1-3 God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains shake with its swelling.
A MIGHTY FORTRESS IS OUR GOD
Few Lutherans can think of Martin Luther and the Reformation with out thinking of this hymn, often called the "Battle Hymn of the Reformation." Luther wrote this hymn about 1529 as the confrontation with the Roman Catholic Church continued to grow.
A mighty Fortress is our God, A trusty Shield and Weapon;
He helps us free from every need That hath us now o'ertaken.
The old evil Foe Now means deadly woe;
Deep guile and great might Are his dread arms in fight;
On Earth is not his equal.
(TLH 262:1)
This hymn is also a teaching hymn. Based on the thoughts of Psalm 46, this hymn assures of God's strength against the Devil and any forces he may employ against us and the truth of God's Word. We can be confident that with God at our side we will be victorious because of the work of Jesus our Savior!
With might of ours can naught be done, Soon were our loss effected;
But for us fights the Valiant One, Whom God Himself elected.
Ask ye, Who is this? Jesus Christ it is.
Of Sabaoth Lord, And there's none other God;
He holds the field forever.
Though devils all the world should fill, All eager to devour us.
We tremble not, we fear no ill, They shall not overpower us.
This world's prince may still Scowl fierce as he will,
He can harm us none, He's judged; the deed is done;
One little word can fell him.
The Word they still shall let remain Nor any thanks have for it;
He's by our side upon the plain With His good gifts and Spirit.
And take they our life, Goods, fame, child and wife,
Let these all be gone, They yet have nothing won;
The Kingdom our remaineth.
(TLH 262:2-4)
Let us be thankful for the great blessings God has given us through the Lutheran Reformation, trust in God our Mighty Fortress, and wield His Word through which we are more than conquerors!
