Fear

‘Fear nothing’ (Psalm 91 v.5, MSG) writes the psalmist. He gives the remedy for ‘fear’ in the bad sense of the word. He writes, ‘You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday’ (vv.5–6).

The remedy for fear is a close relationship with the Lord – to dwell ‘in the shelter of the Most High’ and ‘rest in the shadow of the Almighty’ (v.1). The opposite of fear is trust in God (v.2).

There is a strong connection between what you think and what you say. What you think will come out in your words. But also, your words can affect your thinking. What you say to God can change your thinking. The psalmist tells us to speak aloud about God’s goodness: ‘Say this, “God you’re my refuge. I trust in you and I’m safe!”’ (v.2, MSG).

He promises to rescue you ‘from hidden traps, shields you from deadly hazards. His huge outstretched arms protect you – under them you’re perfectly safe; his arms fend off all harm’ (vv.3–4, MSG).

Fear can destroy your enjoyment of the present. God raised Jesus from the dead. In doing so, he freed you from the fear of death and all the fears that go with it. ‘Under his wings you find refuge’ (v.4). You do not need to be afraid about the future and you can enjoy the present without fear.