What does "we will not fear" teach about faith in God's protection? Verse in focus “Therefore we will not fear, though the earth is transformed and the mountains are toppled into the depths of the seas.” (Psalm 46:2) Immediate context • Psalm 46:1 precedes with, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.” • Verses 3–7 picture roaring waters, quaking nations, and collapsing kingdoms—yet a steadfast, protecting God. • The psalm is corporate (“we”), sung by God’s people when hostile armies threatened Jerusalem (cf. 2 Kings 18-19). Why “Therefore” matters Because God is already our refuge (v. 1), fear becomes illogical. Faith reasons from God’s character outward, not from circumstances inward. What “we” reveals about faith • Collective confidence—faith thrives in community worship and shared testimony (Hebrews 10:23-25). • A covenant perspective—the promise of protection belongs to all who are in Him (Psalm 91:9-10). What “will not fear” teaches • A settled choice of the will: faith actively rejects anxiety (Psalm 56:3-4). • Not denial of danger but defiance of it—earthquakes and tidal waves represent worst-case scenarios; even then God’s guardianship stands (Isaiah 43:2). • Fearlessness flows from proximity to God, not distance from trouble (Psalm 23:4). Key truths about faith in God’s protection • Protection is personal and powerful—“refuge” (safe shelter) plus “strength” (divine enablement). • God is “ever-present” (literally “found exceedingly”); He shows up before the crisis peaks. • Faith rests in Who God is, not in how stable creation appears; creation can shake, the Creator cannot (Malachi 3:6). • Ultimate security is both temporal and eternal—nothing can separate believers from God’s saving love (Romans 8:31-39). Supporting Scriptures • Psalm 27:1 — “The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” • Isaiah 41:10 — “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” • Hebrews 13:6 — “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.” • 2 Timothy 1:7 — “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” Practical takeaways for today • Identify your “earth-shaking” circumstances and consciously apply “Therefore.” • Verbalize trust—say aloud, “We will not fear,” aligning emotions with truth. • Lean into the church family; shared worship fortifies fearless faith. • Anchor daily decisions in God’s unchanging character rather than fluctuating news or feelings. • Recall past deliverances; yesterday’s faithfulness fuels today’s courage (Lamentations 3:21-23). Because God Himself is our refuge, “we will not fear” becomes more than a slogan; it is a lived confession of confident faith in His unfailing protection. |
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