What To Do When You’re Afraid Post - Kerry Shook

Roller Coaster – Dealing with the Emotional Ups and Downs of Life 

“When I am afraid, I will trust in you.” Psalm 56:3 (NIV)

Imagine being falsely accused and on the run for your life! You’re considered “Public Enemy Number One” by the President no less. It’s doubtful any of us will know exactly how David felt in this Psalm, but we do understand how fear can mess up our lives and relationships. We are either controlled by fear or by faith. What controls you? Do you find yourself overcome by feelings of dread? The future is so bleak, you just want to run and hide. That’s what David did. For fear of his life, he ran from his home in Judah to an enemy stronghold in Gath, hoping King Saul would never go there to look for him. Saul was envious and jealous of David. He conspired to kill him. David prayed,

“Be merciful to me, O God, for men hotly pursue me; all day long they press their attack. My slanderers pursue me all day long; many are attacking me in their pride. When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?” Psalm 56:1-4 (NIV)

How did David overcome the emotions that could have overwhelmed him? What did he do when he was afraid? He didn’t deny the severity of his situation. He knew he was under attack and that the accusations against him were false. Failing to find refuge in the city where he fled, David turned to God in prayer. He took his stand on the promises of God. God had given David His word that, one day, he would be King of Judah. He knew he had a divine destiny and nothing that man could do would thwart God’s promise. So, he made a bold proclamation over his own life. He declared, “When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?” Psalm 56:3-4 (NIV)
Wow! What a positive step of faith to take when you find your emotions causing you to retreat in fear! When you are afraid, you have a choice to make. You can give in to fear, or you can give your fear over to God and put your trust in Him! Trust in His promise to provide, protect, and care for you. Trust in His presence that will never leave you or forsake you. Begin to replace your fear with praise for all that God is and watch faith arise.