Trusting God When Fear Strikes Series

Trusting God When Fear Strikes

Introduction:

Today, we will consider two powerful verses of Scripture that speak to the core of our human experience—fear and trust. Fear is something that each of us faces at different times in our lives. Sometimes, it’s fear of the unknown, fear of failure, fear of danger, or fear of losing control. But God, in His love and wisdom, has given us promises that provide comfort, peace, and strength when fear strikes.

Today, we will explore Psalm 56:3 and Isaiah 41:13, two passages that remind us of God’s presence and faithfulness, even in our most fearful moments.

Psalm 56:3 (NLT) says, "But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you."

Isaiah 41:13 (NLT) declares, "For I hold you by your right hand—I, the Lord your God. And I say to you, ‘Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you.'"

These verses will guide our time together as we unpack how to trust God in the midst of fear. We'll look at three key points: Acknowledging Fear, Choosing Trust, and God's Faithful Presence.

I. Acknowledging Fear – "When I Am Afraid"

Psalm 56:3 begins with a simple yet profound acknowledgment: "But when I am afraid…" Notice that it doesn’t say, "If I am afraid," but "when." This shows that fear is a common experience, even for those who walk closely with God. The psalmist David, a man after God’s own heart, wasn’t immune to fear. In this Psalm, David is being pursued by his enemies, and fear is a natural response.

David wrote Psalm 56 while he was captured by the Philistines in Gath (1 Samuel 21:10-15). He was in a dire situation, surrounded by enemies, and his life was at risk. In that moment, fear was real, but David didn’t stay in that fear—he turned to God.

The Hebrew word for "afraid" here is yare, which means to be terrified or frightened. This word conveys deep fear, the kind that grips us and makes us feel helpless. But David teaches us something crucial: we don't have to deny our fear. Instead, we acknowledge it and bring it to God.

In our lives, fear comes in many forms. It could be fear of losing a loved one, fear of financial instability, or fear of an uncertain future. Whatever your fear is today, God invites you to bring it to Him. He knows your heart, and He understands your fears. Acknowledge your fear before God, just as David did. He can handle your honesty.

In 2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT), Paul encourages Timothy by reminding him, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." Here, Paul reminds us that fear does not come from God. God equips us with power, love, and a sound mind to overcome fear.

Max Lucado wote, “Feed your fears, and your faith will starve. Feed your faith, and your fears will.” Lucado’s words echo the truth that fear can diminish our faith if we focus on it. But when we bring our fears to God, faith grows.

II. Choosing Trust – "I Will Put My Trust in You"

After acknowledging his fear, David makes a conscious decision: "I will put my trust in you." This is a deliberate choice to turn to God in the midst of fear. Trusting God doesn't mean the absence of fear; it means choosing faith over fear.

The Hebrew word for "trust" here is batach, which means to have confidence, to feel secure, or to rely on. Trusting God is not a passive feeling but an active decision to place our confidence in Him, regardless of our circumstances. David chooses to rely on God because he knows that God is faithful.

In Isaiah 41:13, God reinforces this by saying, "For I hold you by your right hand—I, the Lord your God." The imagery of God holding our hand signifies His guidance, strength, and protection. It’s a personal and intimate promise.

Trust is an ongoing choice. In moments of fear, we are tempted to rely on our own strength, logic, or resources. But God calls us to trust in Him. When fear comes knocking, respond with trust in God. Remind yourself of His past faithfulness, and choose to believe that He will guide you through whatever you face.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) instructs us, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take." This passage challenges us to lean not on our limited understanding but to place our full trust in God, who sees the bigger picture.

Craig Groeschel, a well-known pastor and author, says, “To be free from fear, you have to trust God with the future.” Groeschel reminds us that trust in God liberates us from the paralyzing grip of fear.