Author’s Note: Yes, this is another church newsletter submission. Yes, I wrote it on Inauguration Day.

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you

In God, whose word I praise

In God I trust and am not afraid

What can mere mortals do to me?

Psalm 56: 3-4, NIV

Fear is one of the most primeval emotions we have and it can be a strong motivating force in trying times. We fear the unknown or what is different and in reacting to that fear, we can sometimes turn away from God. When we give in to fear, we let it control us instead of considering the impact our actions have on others. King David was afraid as Saul pursued him across the desert, but instead of giving in to his feelings and taking revenge when given the chance, David refused to do so. He trusted that God would deliver him from his torment and allowed his fear to bring him closer to God rather than push him away. It is difficult to relinquish control, even when we know that there is nothing we can do to change a situation, but God has promised us a bright future despite our current struggles.  The book of Jeremiah tells us that God knows what he has planned for us: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11) and it is this hope that is reflected in David’s words – what can mere mortals do to me? There is nothing that can destroy us  as long as we don’t allow fear, no matter how well founded, to affect our relationship with God.  Trust the Lord and He will see you through your darkest fears.