A routine health check for little four-year-old Calvin revealed a few unexpected spots on his body. During the visit, he was given some injections, and then the injection site was covered with a plaster. At home, when the time came to remove the small adhesive covering, Calvin whimpered with fear. Seeking to console his son, his father said, “Calvin, you know I’d never do anything to hurt you.” His father wanted his son to trust him more than fearing the removal of the plaster.
Four-year-olds aren’t the only ones who grow faint in the face of discomfort. Surgeries, separation from loved ones, mental or psychological challenges—and more—prompt our fears, sighs, cries and groans.
One of David’s fear-filled moments was when he found himself in Philistine territory while fleeing a jealous King Saul. When he was recognised, he was anxious about what might happen to him (see 1 Samuel 21:10-11): “David . . . was very much afraid of Achish king of Gath” (v. 12). Reflecting on this uncomfortable situation, David wrote, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. . . . In God I trust and am not afraid” (Psalm 56:3-4).
What shall we do when life’s discomforts stir up our fears? We can put our trust in our heavenly Father.
By Arthur Jackson
REFLECT & PRAY
What situation is presently making you fearful? How can you rest in His care as you bring your fears before your loving heavenly Father in prayer?
Dear God, in my humanity and frailty, I’m fearful. Help me to see and experience Your love and care even in the midst of my trials and discomfort.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
The psalmist David’s name appears on 73 of the 150 psalms. And New Testament references indicate he also wrote Psalms 2 and 95 (see Acts 4:25; Hebrews 4:7). Most of his psalms lack background information, but 13, including Psalm 56, give details on their setting. The superscription ascribes Psalm 56 to David and states: “When the Philistines had seized [David] in Gath.” He so feared King Saul that he entered enemy territory. There the servants of Achish, the king of Gath, recognized him and informed the king. Terrified, David “pretended to be insane in their presence; and . . . acted like a madman” (1 Samuel 21:13). It worked. He was released (vv. 14-15) and escaped to the cave of Adullam (22:1). Though fearful, he put his trust in God (Psalm 56:3).
Alyson Kieda
Our mission is to make the life-changing wisdom of the Bible understandable and accessible to all.
