There’s a lot going on these days. You read in the media about horrific wars, looming crises, and violence both near and far. The world is certainly not a peaceful place. That can make you feel afraid and uneasy.
Sometimes the problems come much closer when you lose your job, become seriously ill, or experience painful things in your family. Perhaps you are even threatened by people around you. David experienced this as well. In Psalm 143 he tells us about enemies who crush him to the ground, and he cries out to God:
“My spirit grows faint within me; my heart within me is dismayed.” (Psalm 143:4 NIV)
David honestly acknowledges that he can no longer cope on his own. The fear becomes overwhelming. Maybe you recognize that?
If so, I want to encourage you to also read Psalm 34, by the same poet. In this song he describes how God helped him in a hopeless and fearful situation:
“I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.” (Psalm 34:4 NIV)
David is not an exception. Many believers have experienced:
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1 NIV)
What are you afraid of? Do you bring that fear to God?