God Is Our Refuge and Strength

“God Is Our Refuge and Strength” is a modern metrical hymn based closely on Psalm 46, written by Richard Bewes in 1978. Bewes, an evangelical Anglican pastor and writer, composed the text to provide a faithful and accessible paraphrase of the psalm for congregational worship. His aim was to preserve the strength, confidence, and theological clarity of the biblical text while shaping it for singing by the gathered church.

The hymn proclaims God as a sure refuge in times of turmoil and uncertainty. Drawing directly from the psalm, it affirms that God is present and active even when the earth seems unstable and the nations are in uproar. The language reflects the psalmist’s conviction that external chaos does not threaten God’s sovereign rule or His care for His people. This assurance is grounded not in changing circumstances, but in the unchanging character of God.

A central theme of the hymn is confidence rooted in God’s presence. The repeated emphasis on God being “with us” echoes the biblical refrain that the Lord of hosts stands alongside His people. This truth provides courage and calm in the face of fear, reminding believers that divine help is immediate and sufficient. The hymn also points to God’s power to still conflict and bring peace, calling attention to His authority over nations and history.

The text balances reassurance with reverence. It invites worshipers not only to trust God’s protection, but also to recognize His exalted holiness and supremacy. The call to be still and acknowledge God’s sovereignty reflects a posture of humble submission and faith. Worship, in this hymn, becomes both a confession of trust and an act of surrender.

“God Is Our Refuge and Strength” is well suited for services focused on trust, perseverance, and the authority of God. Its clear biblical foundation and strong theological tone make it especially effective during times of crisis or communal prayer. The hymn continues to serve the church as a confident declaration that God remains steadfast, powerful, and present with His people.