God Makes His City Strong (vv.1–3)

Psalm 48 begins with praise:

“Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised in the city of our God! His holy mountain, beautiful in elevation, is the joy of all the earth.” (vv.1–2,)

Jerusalem was special not because of its walls or buildings, but because God was there.

“Within her citadels God has made himself known as a fortress.” (v.3)

This shows us that God's presence is a source of strength. Today, the church is strong not because of people or programs, but because Jesus Christ is with us. He is our fortress, refuge, and help.

Human Strength Can’t Stand Against God (vv.4–7)

The psalmist describes how enemy kings gathered to attack Jerusalem:

“For behold, the kings assembled; they came on together. As soon as they saw it, they were astounded; they were in panic; they took to flight.” (vv.4–5)

Even the mightiest army cannot stand up to God.

“By the east wind you shattered the ships of Tarshish.” (v.7)

The “ships of Tarshish” were strong and impressive sea vessels. But even they were destroyed easily by God’s power. This is a reminder not to rely on our own plans, strength, or resources. Only God can protect and save us.

Seeing God’s Work for Ourselves (v.8)

“As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the Lord of hosts… God will establish it forever.” (v.8)

The people had heard about God's faithfulness, and now they had seen it with their own eyes.

This is the Christian life: we hear the truth, but God also wants us to experience his faithfulness personally. He is the same God who protected Zion, and who watches over us today.

Rejoicing in God's Righteousness and Loving kindness (vv. 9-11)

“We have thought on your steadfast love, O God, in the midst of your temple.” (v.9) “Let Mount Zion be glad! Let the daughters of Judah rejoice because of your judgments!” (v.11)

God's steadfast love and righteous judgment are reasons to rejoice.

He punishes evil and saves his people. For those who believe in Jesus, God's righteousness is a source of hope because he has judged our sins on the cross.

Pass It On (vv.12–14)

“Walk about Zion, go around her, number her towers, consider well her ramparts… that you may tell the next generation.” (vv.12–13)

God wants us to remember his faithfulness and tell others.

Reflection Questions

Are you relying on your own strength or on God’s presence?

Have you experienced God’s work in your own life?

Are you passing on the story of his faithfulness to the next generation?

Prayer

Dear Father, thank you for being our refuge. You are the one who protects and leads us. Help us not to rely on ourselves, but to trust in you fully. Let us see your work in our lives and share your goodness with others. You are our God forever. In the name of Jesus’, we pray. Amen.