How can we recognize God's presence during our personal trials and challenges? Setting the Scene: Psalm 18:7 “Then the earth shook and quaked, and the foundations of the mountains trembled; they were shaken because He burned with anger.” Seeing the Earthquake for What It Is • David describes literal seismic upheaval—mountains trembling under God’s touch • The shaking signals that God is not passive; He steps into human history with power • Trials often feel like quakes under our feet, yet the same God who shook Sinai and Calvary is near Indicators of His Nearness in Hard Times • Unexpected disruptions—like the prison quake in Acts 16:26—often point to divine intervention • A rising holy awe, similar to Israel’s fear at Exodus 19:18, reminds us God is on the scene • A fresh awareness of sin or need, echoing Isaiah 6:5 when the prophet sensed God’s glory • Providential timing: breakthroughs or open doors aligning with His promises (Psalm 34:19) • Inner strengthening by the Spirit that surpasses circumstances (Ephesians 3:16) Linking Scripture for a Fuller Picture • Psalm 46:1-3—when nations rage and earth yields, “God is our refuge and strength” • Matthew 27:51—the earth shook as Christ secured salvation, showing God works through turmoil • Hebrews 12:26-28—He shakes created things so the unshakable kingdom remains Practical Ways to Recognize His Presence • Measure everything against Scripture; His actions never contradict His Word • Cultivate stillness (Psalm 46:10) even while the ground moves, listening for His voice • Recall past deliverances; remembrance fuels present faith (1 Samuel 7:12) • Lean into the fellowship of believers who confirm God’s work (2 Corinthians 1:3-4) • Speak gratitude aloud—praise clarifies vision, revealing His hand at work (Psalm 50:23) Living the Lesson When life rattles like the mountains in Psalm 18:7, the shaking itself can serve as a divine calling card. Recognizing His nearness involves watching for holy disruption, aligning responses with Scripture, and trusting that every quake prepares solid ground for deeper faith. |
    |