When Fearful Times Come!

Scripture Text

Psalm 56:3-4

Intro: Anxieties arise in our lives, not only because this is a fallen world, but God can use our anxieties in order to teach us faith. Sometimes we must be brought to the end of ourselves so we will choose to trust the Father. This is a necessary lesson and a vital part of maturing us as believers. God desires that we grow in our trust of Him.

I. Times of fearfulness will come. [Psalms 56:3a] (NKJV) Whenever I am afraid,

a. David said when I am afraid. There will be times when we are afraid. David had many enemies and problems to face each day. [v:2]

b. There are physical and spiritual enemies who hound and fight against us. Enemies are sent of Satan to destroy us. They come to keep us from experiencing God’s best for our lives. Fighting against these enemies burden us down and put pressure on us. So what do we do in these situations?

II. When fearful times come we choose our course of action. Psalm 56:3b (NKJV)  Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.

a. Every day we either choose to be afraid and succumb to our fears or we can trust in God. It’s a matter of the will. David said “I will trust in God.” The bible says in Philippians 4:6-7 ⁶ Be anxious (fearful) for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, (with thanksgiving,) let your requests be made known to God; ⁷ and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. In troubled times our hearts and minds need protection. Prayer is the key! Take everything to God in prayer and leave it there.                                                                                                                               

III. Our trust is in the character of God and the faithfulness of His word. [Psalms 56:4] In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me? David wills [chooses] to honor God's word and not fear.

a. God is more powerful than all our foes combined, and He has promised in His word to protect us from harm. Nothing can penetrate the protective hedge which He sets up around us except by His permissive will. This is why we can trust in God without a fear. If you are not close to God and growing in Him you won't be able to trust Him and you will be afraid. God has to be first in our life.

If God is first in our lives What can man or anything else do to us? Romans 8:31 -32 (NKJV) What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? ³² He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?

CONCLUSION: So today, is your heart in despair? Are questions, painful thoughts, or fears flooding your mind? Is there overwhelming situations that you cannot handle? Do as David did and come back to the truth of your Father’s perfect provision and unfailing care for your every need. God has not and never will abandon you. He has made His people a promise in His unfailing word. Isaiah 41:13 ¹³ For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand, Saying to you, 'Fear not, I will help you.' Whenever you start to feel afraid, remember that God is holding you by your right hand. Nothing can separate you from His presence. Trust Him to help you!

Invitation: You can never trust in God or His word until you have confessed your sins to God’s Son Jesus and asked Him to forgive your sins against Father God and save you from Hell? You can choose this day to be forgiven and set free from the penalty of your sin by Asking Jesus to forgive you and save you!

Prayer: Lord, speak to the heart of those who may need to trust in Jesus for their salvation and give them the grace to respond. Lord, help us that are Your children to put our trust in You and Your word when we are afraid. Help us to have faith in Your provisions and protection. Thank You for loving us and drawing us all closer to You in Jesus’ holy name. Amen!