February 26 - Psalm 56:3-4

Welcome back to the Echoes of Eden podcast. I'm your host Jonah and today we'll delve into the narrative found in Psalm 56 a part of the Old Testament written by David himself. Let's begin. Psalm 56 verses 3 through 4: Whenever I am afraid I will trust in You. 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 known for his bravery and triumphs acknowledged facing fears. Similar to us he experienced moments of anxiety. However young David entrusted his fears to God stating his intentions to trust in the Almighty regardless of his apprehensions. Spurgeon beautifully described David's state of mind: He feared but that fear did not fill the whole area of his mind for he adds 'I will trust in Thee.' It's possible for fear and faith to coexist in our thoughts. At such moments remember David's example cling to faith despite the looming fear. Fear should never hinder our obedience to God or silence our testimonies. As Spurgeon remarked Many do not serve God or speak a word in His name to others out of fear and they wait for a time when they are no longer afraid to do so. Don't let fear dictate the pace of serving and worshipping God. Embody David's courage and act justly love mercy and walk humbly with your God. During David's time people turned to other humans or themselves when scared but entrusting ourselves to God during challenging moments makes all the difference. Practicing faith particularly when frightened shows divine maturity. Furthermore David expressed gratitude for the praiseworthy characteristics of God's holy Word. Directly linked with his trust in God David trusted not only in God's revealed nature and promises but also in His Word - His self-revelation to us. Boice suggests that perhaps David thought of the specific words of God delivered by the prophet Samuel promising him the future crown. Emboldened David declared In God I have put my trust I will not fear continuing his assertion that trust alone propels him forward without any remnants of fear. Theologian Morgan elaborates First the singer declares that in the hour of fear he will trust. Then he declares he will trust and not be afraid. With faith justified by mountain-moving experiences David pushes his initial declaration of faith into fuller confidence that eradicates any lingering anxieties. Lastly David posed an essential rhetorical question What can flesh do to me? While our human intuition replies with a lot of harm David grounded in trust in the Most High realized that God's protection trumps any human adversity. As we conclude today's episode reflect on the story and wisdom gleaned from Psalm 56. Be assured dear listeners that regardless of life's circumstances we too can rely upon the promises and unchanging nature of our steadfast Creator. Join us again tomorrow as we continue exploring Scripture brought to life here on the Echoes of Eden podcast. Until then have a blessed day!