When I am afraid.

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. Psalm 56:3

There’s a moment in fear when your whole world seems to stop. Whether it’s a sudden worry that shakes you to your core or a long-standing anxiety that refuses to let you go, fear has a way of making us feel small and powerless. I’ve been there–those times when life feels out of control, when the news is bad, when the future seems uncertain.

The simplicity of David’s words strikes me: When I am afraid. Not if, but when. Fear is a part of life; we all face it at one time or another. But what I love about this verse is the way David handles his fear. He doesn’t pretend it’s not there, and he doesn’t let it consume him. Instead, he makes a choice: I will put my trust in You.

It’s such a small but powerful shift. Fear says, “You are alone. You can’t handle this. There is no way out.” But trust reminds us that we are never alone. Trust says, “God is with you. He sees you and knows exactly what you’re going through.”

In my own life, I’ve found that trust doesn’t always make the fear disappear immediately, but it does change how I carry it. Instead of letting the weight of fear overwhelm me, Ive learned to take it to God. I tell Him how I’m feeling, even if it’s messy or uncertain, and then I remind myself of His promises. He is faithful. He is good. He will never leave me nor forsake me.

Next time you feel that familiar grip of fear, take a deep breath. Acknowledge the fear, but don’t stop there. Follow David’s example: When I am afraid, I put my trust in You. Let this be your daily prayer. Surrender your fear into the hands of the One who holds you, and trust that He is already working all things for your good.

Prayer

Lord, You know my fears, even the ones I try to hide. When I am afraid, help me to turn my heart toward You and trust You completely. Remind me of Your faithfulness and give me the courage to believe that You are greater than any fear I face.

Amen.