For much of my life, fear was a battle. Even now, there are plenty of opportunities to feel fearful. So I’ve learned a battle plan that works for me, and I know that it will work for you as well.
I manage fear in two ways: First, I praise God. He is bigger than my fears. He promises to be with me in the darkest valley. Second, I turn to Scripture. The Psalms provide wonderful word pictures and reminders of God’s protection. I have three “go-to” Psalms when fear is threatening my peace:
Psalm 27. I love the reminder David gives us in this Psalm that the Lord Himself is our light and salvation. When my little grandkids spend the night, I turn on a night light for them because everyone knows that darkness is scary. Fear thrives in darkness, but our Lord is the Light. David continues by writing that God is also the stronghold of our lives. The word “stronghold” gives us a picture of a secure tower where we can hide. Though evil may come against us, the security of being hidden in God allows us to stand in courage.
Psalm 46. I memorized this Psalm when I journeyed through cancer, and it is still a favorite of mine. David wrote, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble; therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.” Even when it seems as though the earth is shaking, we can be confident because God is with us.
Psalm 91. This Psalm became precious to me when I journeyed through healing from the sexual abuse I experienced as a child. The picture of being nestled under the shadow of the Almighty, where no evil can touch me, brought me great comfort.
Friend, the next time you feel fearful—either for yourself or your loved ones—spend some time soaking in these Psalms. Read them out loud and declare them as truth over your life. Pray them on behalf of your children and spouses. Study them. Memorize them. Read them every day for a season and watch how God will build courage into your life.
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