Bird Encourages Students to Trust in God

November 28, 2012

Psalm 46 gives reason to trust in God and have no fear regardless of circumstances, Elizabeth Bird told OBU students during a weekly chapel service Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012.

Bird, self-governance coordinator for the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians in Oklahoma, presented a message to follow OBU's current chapel theme, "The Psalms."

"How big is your God?" Bird asked students after reading the first three verses of Psalm 46. "Bottom line, He's our safety, our strength, our help; but not just any kind of help … a very present help."

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Bird asked students to contemplate how enormous the God they serve is, referencing the complexities of nature and space.

From the next three verses, Bird asked students to consider if they know God. The passage states, "God is in the midst of her [His city], she will not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns." God is with His city and the rivers streaming around it; He is dwelling among us, Bird said.

"He gave us salvation, the gift of it, if we'll take it," said Bird. "He didn't have to. That's why I praise Him."

Bird reminded students that God is very personal, and just as the Scripture indicates he was alive and personal to Jacob, God is alive and personal to people today. The Scripture also indicates there will come a time of desolation for the earth, said Bird, referencing Psalm 46:6-9.

"This amazing God has power and could change the earth, if He so chooses," said Bird.

In realization of that power, Bird asked students if they trust God. She encouraged students to trust in Him based on His power and desire to be personal with each person. The last section of the selected passage reads, "Be still and know that I am God … The Lord of Hosts is with you."