Fear is an emotion that all experience. David wrote about his fearsome feelings often. In Psalm 56, he admitted that he was struggling with many things that made him afraid.
David daily faced enemies (Psalm 56:1-2). Peace must have escaped him as he was often cautious and wary of attacks. Not knowing who or where he would be attacked, physically or mentally, would have most people on edge.
His enemies twisted his words around (“wrest”) — Psalm 56:5. Quite often, I imagine, he had to defend himself from their convoluted remarks and slander, much like those that are currently hurled at President Trump. Much of what the president says is misinterpreted and bent to make him look bad to the public. David seemingly faced a similar battle with his opponents. Having what you have said being constantly misquoted and questioned would also have one on the alert and cautious.
His adversaries regularly watched what he was doing to find something that could be misconstrued as being wrong. He was under the intense scrutiny of many wanting him to fail or to find a weak point where he could be rebuked. In private meetings, his demise was often planned and talked about (Psalm 56:6, 8).
In all that he faced and feared his defense, and many times his offense, was the Lord. He had faced so many troubles and trials that he learned an invaluable lesson. One cannot handle most problems himself. David was determined to let go and let God handle his opposition. When he was afraid, it was the perfect time to trust God — again!
“What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.” Psalm 56:3
David’s fear subsided when he turned his troubles over for the Lord to handle. That is one thing all should know. We cannot handle most troublesome predicaments. We need help, and that help is, again, just a prayer call away.
“In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me.” Psalm 56:11
“Don’t try to hold God’s hand; let Him hold yours. Let Him do the holding, and you the trusting.”
— Webb-Peploe
