Fear is real, and the answer is to turn it into trust in God.
“What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me.”Psalm 56:3-4 (KJV)
What does “When afraid” mean in Psalm 56:3-4?
David wrote this psalm when he was seized by enemies. He does not deny his fear. He decides what to do with it: he puts his trust in God and praises His word.
Going deeper
David is honest about being afraid: What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. He does not say, I will never be afraid. He says, when fear comes, this is what I will do. Then he adds, In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me. Fear does not vanish, but it loses its power when it is met with trust and with the words God has spoken.
It can help to have a ready response for fear. When anxiety rises this week, try saying David's words aloud: When I am afraid, I will trust in You. Follow it with a line of Scripture that you know. You are not pretending to feel calm. You are choosing where to place your trust. Repeat it as often as needed. Each time you turn fear into trust, you strengthen the habit of relying on God.
Reflect
What fear could you meet with these words the next time it rises this week?
Pray
Lord, when I am afraid, I will trust in You. Help me to praise Your word and to put my trust in You. In Jesus' name, amen.
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