What is the meaning of Psalm 56:4? In God, whose word I praise • David starts by celebrating God’s revealed Word. Exalting Scripture is the same as exalting its Author (Psalm 138:2). • Every promise is rock-solid; “Forever, O LORD, Your word is settled in heaven” (Psalm 119:89). • Recalling God’s past faithfulness steadies the heart (Joshua 21:45; 1 Kings 8:56). in God I trust • Trust moves from mere knowledge to confident reliance. Proverbs 3:5 urges, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart.” • Trust is personal—“in God,” not in circumstances or self (Jeremiah 17:7). • It rests on God’s unchanging character (Malachi 3:6; James 1:17) and His covenant love (Psalm 33:18–22). I will not be afraid • Fear is a choice influenced by focus; fixing on God silences dread (Isaiah 26:3). • The Lord repeatedly commands “Do not fear” because He supplies every reason not to (Isaiah 41:10; John 14:27). • Confidence in God’s nearness turns potential panic into peace (Psalm 23:4; Philippians 4:6-7). What can man do to me? • Compared to Almighty God, human threats are limited (Matthew 10:28). • Hebrews 13:6 echoes this verse: “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” • Even if people harm the body or reputation, they cannot touch eternal security (Romans 8:31-39). summary Psalm 56:4 invites a rhythm for every trial: Praise God’s Word, plant fresh trust in Him, reject fear, and remember that human power is always inferior to divine protection. |