Have you ever been in trouble…I mean real life-threatening danger?  That is David’s context when he wrote Psalm 27.  He is most likely referring to being hunted by King Saul when he mentions the wicked who advance to devour him (v. 2) and lie about him (v. 12).  How would you respond in these situations?  How do you respond when you face those who seek to do harm to your life and reputation?  David reacted with great courage.  In verse 14 David says, “Wait for the Lord, be strong, take heart, and wait for the Lord.”  In verse 13 David tells us he is confident in seeing the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living!  He did not fear because the Lord was his light and salvation (v. 1). He knew God would be with him and protect him. Instead of becoming paralyzed by continually looking at his problems, David turned his focus to the Lord, sought Him, and worshipped (v. 4).  David trusted God would keep him safe, hide him, and set him on a high rock (v. 5). 

David overcame three fears by trusting in the one true God.  First, he overcame fears brought on by his current situation in life.  He did not ignore what was going on around him, he turned it over to the Lord.  He found everything he needed in the Lord and was able to overcome outward circumstances because of inward worship.  Second, David overcame fears of abandonment and failure.  He kept reminding himself to “seek God’s face” (v. 7) and the certainty of God’s character to protect and receive (v. 10).  Certainly, David could have worried if God would help him in the real-life struggles he was facing.  It’s one thing to worship God in his house (v. 4) and absolutely another to believe He will be with us on our battlefield.  That is why we must take worship to the middle of the battle and not isolate it in the sanctuary!  Trusting God in private worship must transfer to trusting Him in public life. Third, David overcame fears of “what if”.  David had hope and confidence he would see (future tense) the goodness of the Lord (v. 13).  He would wait with strength and heart (v. 14) for the goodness of the Lord that surpasses the wickedness of his enemies. 

Questions:

1. Do you ever fear God has abandoned you in your circumstance?
2. Do you ever fear your prayers and hopes will not come to pass?
3. Do you trust the Lord for the future?

Prayer:

Thank you, Lord, for helping me overcome fear.  Sometimes fear itself is a greater enemy than the object of fear.  Help me not be paralyzed or dismayed with fear but encouraged and strengthened by faith.  In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

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stephenrharrison

Stephen and his wife Haley have called Arkansas home all of their lives. Stephen has served in several ministry roles over the last 25 years and as a lead pastor for the last 8 years. Stephen attended Williams Baptist College and earned a BA in Biblical Studies from Ouachita Baptist University, an MA, MDiv, and DMin in Christian Leadership and Pastoral Ministries from Liberty University. When not pastoring, Stephen enjoys running, cycling, reading, writing, camping, fishing, and spending time with his family.