Psalm 56

“Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.” (Psalm 56:3, NKJV)

Fear is an emotion that can disable us. We have all experienced times when we were paralyzed from doing anything, or we kept silent when we should have spoken up, because we were afraid. Yet fear does not come from God. And the command given in Scripture more than any other is “do not fear.”

From a human perspective, David had every reason to be afraid. King Saul was trying to kill him, so he took refuge among the Philistines. But the Philistine officers were unhappy about it, and they told the king:

“Isn’t this David, the king of the land? Isn’t he the one the people honor with dances, singing, ‘Saul has killed his thousands, and David his ten thousands’?” (1 Samuel 21:11, NLT)

When David heard these words he was so afraid that he pretended to be a madman until the Philistine king drove him away. David wrote this psalm to strengthen himself in the LORD.

“In God I have put my trust; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” (Psalm 56:11, NKJV)

When we are afraid we must take refuge in the LORD. He gives strength and courage to everyone who trusts in Him and asks for His help. He hears the cry of His children. He protects and delivers everyone who calls on His name in truth.

Are you afraid? Remember that God’s perfect love drives out all fear (1 John 4:18). If God is for you, then what difference does it make who is against you? God will be with you to protect and strengthen you from every enemy. Face your fears in the power of His Spirit and hold fast to His promises. Soon you will discover God’s faithfulness, and you will be strong and courageous!