Being realistic

Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. – Psalm 56:3

Few of us are travelling to heaven in a state of freedom from all fear. Who can honestly testify that they always practice this verse: "In God I have put my trust; I will not be afraid"? (PSALM 56:11). We do trust. and yet may be troubled at times by gnawing worries. Our common experience is that our trust in God is mingled with episodes of worry.

Even the apostle Paul, who wrote many of the New Testament letters, had some anxieties. He confessed to the Corinthians, "I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling" (1 CORINTHIANS 2:3).

So don’t worry that you have worries! Don’t pretend you never have them. If you are troubled by anxieties, admit them to yourself. Share them with a trusted friend. Above all, talk to the all-compassionate Friend, Jesus Christ, who knows your every thought and emotion (PSALM 139:4). With compassion, He says to you, "Do not fear" (LUKE 12:32). Ask Him for the grace to help you overcome your fears and worries. Then, "wait on the LORD; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart" (PSALM 27:14).

On your journey through life, whenever you’re afraid, trust in the LORD (PSALM 56:3). – Vernon Grounds

All your anxiety, all your care,

Bring to the Mercy-seat – leave it there;

Never a burden He cannot bear,

Never a Friend like Jesus! – Joanie E. Yoder

READ: PSALM 27

Trusting God’s faithfulness dispels our fearfulness.