Hear my voice, O God, in my complaint. – Psalm 64:1
Fear. What brings it on? Why does it get such a grip on you? Americans were crippled with fear on 9/11 when terrorists struck the nation. That fear was translated to action as numerous industries and companies changed their security practices. If you’ve flown anywhere since 2001, you know the changes that were put in place by the airline industry.
More recently, fear has consumed much of America as a virulent strain of disease known as COVID-19 was released into the world, sickening millions, and killing hundreds of thousands. Responsive action was again forthcoming, as doctors, scientists, and laboratories around the globe work feverishly on therapeutics and potential vaccines.
In addition, crime, dangerous weather, sudden illnesses, the potential for loss of freedoms, uncertainty and helplessness surround on every side. Americans can no longer content themselves with the statement of President Franklin D. Roosevelt who said, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”
Fear is a devastating controller. Proverbs 29:25 says, “The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe.” If causes for anxiety are everywhere, God asks you remember that He is nearer still. “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you” (James 4:8). “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith” (Hebrews 10:22). “But for me, it is good to be near God” (Psalm 73:28). When the word “fear” attacks you, pull out that f and insert an n, and claim it is God who is “near.” In Him, the grip of fear is released.
Thank Him today for members of our government who do not cower in fear at the things that take place but who push themselves and us into action. Pray for those who are fearful to look to the Lord for refuge.
Today’s Verse: Psalm 64:1
Hear my voice, O God, in my complaint;
preserve my life from dread of the enemy.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Psalm 46
God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah
4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved;
God will help her when morning dawns.
6 The nations rage, the kingdoms totter;
he utters his voice, the earth melts.
7 The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,
how he has brought desolations on the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
he breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
he burns the chariots with fire.
10 “Be still, and know that I am God.
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!”
11 The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
