God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Psalm 46:1,7
Notice how God is presented to us in these verses. When we need protection he is “very present” to help. The word “very” emphasizes the intensity of God’s availability. It means “wholly, fully, with completeness”. No distraction in God when we are in trouble. He is the place of safety—He is our “refuge” and “fortress”. In other words, it is not information we need, or even a change in our situation, as much as we need HIM! Closeness and communion with him is the greatest protection against the enemy! (see this in James 4:7-8, Ps 27:4-5)
But there are two other encouragements found here. When threatened, we feel weak & vulnerable. We can lose courage if the battle looks like it will not go well. So God is our strength. It does not say he gives us strength (though that may be implied). Rather it says he IS our strength.
He empowers us from within by the power of the Holy Spirit! (1 Jn 4:4)
Finally, he actually fights for us. He is the “LORD of Hosts” (Lord of the armies of heaven). He not only protects FROM attack, but LEADS to the attack with forces of immense power and strength (Ps 110!)
If this is true, why do we fear?