When I Am Afraid.....

As we wake up to another anniversary of September 11, it’s hard not to be distracted by all that’s going on in our country. I’m drawn to this powerful verse:

"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

When King David spoke these words, he was a prisoner of Philistines in Gath. A prisoner. Life wasn’t easy by any means. Yet, he knew that when fear gripped his heart, he HAD to place his full trust in God. And so do we.

Father in Heaven, Thank you that we can trust you today with all that’s going on in our world. This day and even the hurricanes have not taken you by surprise. You are present and available to all people. You hear our cries for help. You know so well our broken hearts. You are present in our fears and desire to calm our hearts in times of devastation and tragedy. 

For those who have lost loved ones throughout these past few weeks, we ask God, for your grace and mercy to comfort each and every family and friend member affected. There are no words, Lord. You tell us that you are close to the brokenhearted and save those who are crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:18) We believe that today. 

For those who have lost property and personal items, Lord fill each heart with hope and peace. Remind us that stuff can be replaced; lives cannot. Your word tells us “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” (Isaiah 26:3) Be our perfect peace as we watch all that’s going on.

Father, may your perfect love calm our fears, deepen our trust and give us hope for the future. Allow us to be the hands and feet of Jesus by loving well, serving wholeheartedly, giving extravagantly and praying fervently. Thank you that we can come to you in these tumultuous times. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

I don’t know what this day holds. You don’t either. But, I do know my God. He can be our refuge and our fortress in times of need. Be assured that He is with you, (and your friends and family members) in whatever you facing. When you are afraid, will you place your trust in Him?

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1

Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.