What does "I will not be afraid" teach about overcoming fear with faith? Opening Verse “The LORD is on my side; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” (Psalm 118:6) Setting the Scene • Written after deliverance from intense opposition • The psalmist does not deny danger; he denies fear’s rule • Confidence flows from a settled conviction: “The LORD is on my side” Unpacking the Words • “The LORD” – covenant name of God; His character guarantees faithfulness • “on my side” – literally “for me”; He commits Himself to protect and sustain • “I will not be afraid” – a deliberate choice of will, anchored in truth • “What can man do to me?” – fear shrinks when God’s sovereignty is in view Why Fear Hits Us • Uncertainty about outcomes (Matthew 6:31–32) • Awareness of our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:7–10) • Threats from people or circumstances (Psalm 3:1–2) Faith’s Answer • God’s presence is greater than any threat (Isaiah 41:10) • His promises are unbreakable (Numbers 23:19) • Christ has conquered our ultimate enemies—sin and death (Hebrews 2:14–15) How to Practice “I Will Not Be Afraid” Today 1. Remember: rehearse who God is and what He has said (Psalm 77:11–12) 2. Declare: speak truth aloud—“The LORD is on my side” (Romans 10:17) 3. Pray Scripture: insert your situation into verses like Psalm 118:6 4. Act in obedience: move forward despite feelings (Joshua 1:9) 5. Reflect on past deliverances: personal and biblical (1 Samuel 17:37) Supporting Scriptures • Psalm 56:3–4 — “In God I trust; I will not be afraid.” • Hebrews 13:5–6 — “He Himself has said… ‘I will never leave you…’ so we say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.’” • Psalm 27:1 — “The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” • John 14:27 — “My peace I give you… Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.” Takeaway Fear loses its grip when the heart consciously rests in the Lord’s unchanging presence and promises. Choosing to say, “I will not be afraid,” is not denial of danger; it is allegiance to the God who stands beside His people and guarantees their ultimate security. |
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