Come, behold the works of the Lord. —Psalm 46:8
Psalm 46:8 offers an invitation for us to come and behold. But what are we supposed to look at? We’re challenged to behold the works of the Lord and to see how He has brought desolations on the earth.
The word “desolation” means “waste, ruin, astonishment, consternation, or horror.” Or as someone has described it, “Things that stop the heart.” So we’re urged to carefully observe the effects of God’s judgments. The purpose of desolations are to bring the whole world to stand in awe of God. They are part of His great redemptive purposes to deliver His people and bring ultimate peace to the earth.
All who oppose God should be terrified as they realize what awaits them if they continue on their course and do not repent. Yet at the same time, those who trust Him should take heart and not be afraid, because they know that in His time and His way, those who oppose Him will not stand; they will be destroyed. The enemy is not going to win in the long run.
Make it Personal
What “desolations” are going on today that tend to make you fearful? Does it help to know their purpose?