Psalm 34:4
I sought the Lord, and He answered me, And delivered me from all my fears.
Life can often feel like an avalanche of challenges and uncertainties, leaving us overwhelmed by fear. This fear can take many forms, such as a fear of failure that paralyses our ambitions, a fear of rejection that hinders our connections with others, a fear of uncertainty that clouds our judgment, or even a fear of the future that stifles our hope. In such times of distress, Psalm 34:4 offers God’s compelling reminder of a promising truth: when we earnestly seek God with all our hearts, turning our focus toward Him, He listens to our cries and delivers us from our fears.
This promise of divine intervention is sure hope, assuring us that no mountain of fear is insurmountable when we rely on the Lord’s strength. David, the Psalmist, who penned these powerful words, had his fair share of encounters with fear and danger. He faced numerous threats, from the pursuit of enemies to deep personal struggles. However, rather than succumbing to despair or retreating in defeat, David responded with prayer and unwavering faith in God’s presence.
What is remarkable about David’s experience is that God’s response to him was not merely an escape route from his trials; but a release that freed him from the grip of fear itself. He understood that seeking God was the key to experiencing true freedom, a freedom that surpasses the challenges we face.
When we follow David’s example of earnest pursuit, we too are invited into this transformative relationship with God. In doing so, we can experience a unique sense of peace and courage, knowing that with God by our side, we need not let fear dictate our lives. Through this faithful seeking, we are prepared to embrace the freedom of trusting in the Lord.
Lessons to consider
• Fear can paralyse, but prayer energises. When fear arises, make it a habit to pray first instead of panicking. Pour your heart out to God. Learn to seek God in prayer.
• The Lord promises to answer when we seek Him. Know that His immediate or gradual response will consistently deliver us. So, trust God to respond.
• Being delivered from fear doesn’t always mean circumstances change immediately. But it means taking small steps forward, knowing God is walking with you. Take steps to move forward in faith.
Daily Meditations:
Monday – Isaiah 41:10
‘Do not fear, for I am with you;
Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you, surely I will help you,
Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’
Tuesday – Philippians 4:6-7
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Wednesday – Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Thursday – 2 Timothy 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.
Friday – Psalm 55:22
Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.
Saturday – 1 Peter 5:7
casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.
Sunday – John 14:27
Peace, I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.
All Scriptures are quoted from the New American Standard Bible 1995 (NASB1995).
By Pastor Clarence Goh
