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Do Not Be Afraid by Beth Henry (Part 4)

May 2, 2021

Do Not Be Afraid (Part 4)

by Beth Henry

Psalm 56:3, was most likely written during the Sauline Persecution. David is struggling between Saul’s murderous pursuit of him, and his escape into Israel’s greatest enemy, King Achish. In this verse, David pleads with God saying “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” (New International Version, Psalm 56:3) Alexander MacLaren, known as the “prince of expository preachers,” relays the following interpretation: “So far as an examination of the Old Testament avails, I find that David was the first that ever employed the word that is here translated, I will trust, with a religious meaning.” (McLaren)

“David, in the light of his wretched circumstances cries out to God, ’What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee.’ That goes deep down into the realities of life. It is when we are ‘afraid’ that we trust in God; not in easy times, when things are going smoothly with us. Not when the sun shines, but when the tempest blows and the wind howls about his ears, a man gathers his cloak round him, and cleaves fast to his supporter.” (MacLaren)

Fear is a startling, rather disturbing feeling. We often become overwhelmed with the fear of failure. It is extremely exhausting to always try to avoid defeat by seeking perfection. Although, we will never accomplish this realization, it is emotionally trying. In these moments of inadequacy, try to keep this verse in mind. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (New International Version, Deuteronomy 31:6) It is this spiritual nudge that helps ground us in and recall our need to seek God’s face.

Verse:

“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” (New International Version, Psalm 56:3)

David’s Prayer:

“Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.” (New International Version, Psalm 51:11)