Shaken But Secure

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.

Psalm 46:1-2

Natural disasters like the recent earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand remind us of how fragile life can be. The sudden shaking of the earth can leave us feeling vulnerable and afraid, questioning our safety and security. It is in moments like these that we are reminded of how little control we truly have. The ground beneath our feet, which we often take for granted as solid and unmovable, can suddenly tremble, and in an instant, life as we know it can change.

I remember experiencing that same fear when I was in second grade. It was the year 2012, and my hometown, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, was struck by a powerful earthquake. The ground trembled beneath us, buildings were damaged, and uncertainty filled the air. I was terrified, unable to comprehend what was happening around me. Schools and homes were affected, and I could see the fear in the eyes of the people around me. I remember holding my breath, hoping the shaking would stop. Even after the earthquake ended, the aftershocks that followed kept me on edge. I realized then how small and helpless we are in the face of such powerful natural events.

In moments like these, fear can overwhelm us. The uncertainty of what will happen next can consume our hearts. Will there be more shaking? Will we be safe? What if we lose the people we love? But Psalm 46:1-2 reminds us that even when the earth shakes, God remains unshaken. He is our refuge, our safe place, and our source of strength. While everything around us may feel uncertain, God’s presence is steadfast. He is not moved by the storms, the quakes, or the chaos. He is always with us, holding us in His loving hands.

Sometimes, we may experience earthquakes in a figurative sense—situations in life that shake us to our core. It could be the sudden loss of a loved one, an unexpected illness, financial struggles, or the betrayal of a close friend. These things can leave us feeling just as unsteady and afraid as a physical earthquake. But just as God is our refuge in the literal shaking of the earth, He is also our refuge in the emotional and spiritual tremors we face.

He invites us to take shelter in His presence and trust that He is in control, even when everything feels out of control.

If you have ever experienced an earthquake or any life-shaking event, know that God sees your fear and understands your pain. He does not dismiss your worries, but rather, He welcomes you into His arms and reminds you that you are never alone. He invites you to lean on Him, to take refuge in His strength, and to trust that He is always working for your good. The world may tremble, but our faith in God can keep us firm. His love is our foundation, stronger than anything this world may bring.

There is nothing God cannot do.