One of the God-given emotions that He gave to human beings is fear. Fear is not all bad. Fear teaches us respect and warns us of danger. However, fear harms us when we allow it to dominate our lives. What should we do when we are gripped with fear? David gave an example of what to do when we are overwhelmed with fear. David acknowledged God for who God was in his life, "The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble? When evil people come to devour me, when my enemies and foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will not be afraid. Even if I am attacked, I will remain confident (Psalm 27:1-3)." David trusted the Lord by reminding himself about his relationship with God. In the midst of fear, David reminded himself that God was His light, salvation, fortress, and protector.
There is a tendency to forget our relationship with God when we are in a situation that makes us fearful. Our minds can focus on the worst-case scenario and forget that nothing is impossible with God. We focus on the problem itself but not on how God can deliver us from our problems. When David reminded himself of who God was in his life, it gave him confidence. He began to rely on God instead of relying on his understanding and strength. We become fearful when we feel that we cannot control our situations or have no answer. However, when our lives are out of control and we do not have the means to save ourselves, God can save us in a million ways. David overcame his fear by reminding Himself of who God was in his life.
If we are dealing with fear now, we need to remind ourselves who God is in our life and believe it is true. If we doubt God, our fear will remain in our hearts and minds, but if we do not doubt and believe that God is our light, salvation, fortress, and protector, then the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds.
Questions for application: (Think through these questions carefully, meditate on them while answering them, and let the Spirit of God speak to you). What should I do when I am fearful? What happens when I doubt God? Why is it important to remind myself of who God is in my life?
Write down all the worries you face today and lift them up to God.
Prayer:
Father in Heaven, You are my light, salvation, fortress, and protector. Please help me not be fearful but believe and trust in you. Please help my unbelief and help me rest in your sovereign power. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.