Fearless Faith: Truths for Overcoming Fear from Psalm 46
On Sunday we explored Psalm 46 together discovering that God is our refuge, strength, and help in trouble. Verses 1-3 say: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling.”
Notice the Psalmist says: “Therefore we WILL not fear.” Based on the truth of who God is we can determine not to be overcome by fear. That is great news! So how do we determine to be fearless in the face of difficulty? Here are three truths from Psalm 46 that will help us overcome fear:
Walking TOGETHER in truth empowers fearlessness. The Psalmist says: “God is OUR refuge,” and “WE will not fear.” This psalm was sung by God's people who were also led by a choir. All identifying together as God's people. In the original context they were literally rehearsing the truth together through song. At Anchor Church we rehearse the truth together in song, preaching, discipleship groups, prayer meetings, and even over dinner or coffee.
Knowing Christ & walking by the Spirit empowers fearlessness. Verse 4 introduces “a river whose streams make glad the city of God.” This is an OT reference to God’s plan to fill all of creation with His glory; specifically His Word and His presence. This is accomplished first through the work of Jesus on earth and ultimately through the mission of a Spirit filled Church (John 7:37-38). The Psalmist says that “God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when the morning dawns.” In other words, God’s Spirit fills His church bringing strength and help when we face trouble.
Being still to behold God’s works washes away fear. Verse 8 says: “Come behold the works of the Lord.” Then the Psalmist lists things God has done and is doing. This is a call to remember, and to look out for the mighty works of God. But most of the time we’re too distracted to notice. God says to our distraction: “Be still, and know that I am God.” We succumb to fear because we won’t behold, in stillness, the mighty works of our King.
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
Based on what we’ve seen in Psalm 46, why are so many believers overcome by fear?
Based on what we’ve learned from Psalm 46, what ways might the enemy work cultivating fear among God’s people?
We know God has called us to make disciples. How might a healthy dose of fearlessness impact the way we live out our calling?
PRAYER FOCUS
Take time to consider your connection in the faith community, your dependence on Christ and the Holy Spirit, and the time you spend beholding God in stillness. Ask the Lord to show you adjustments that need to be made for you to walk fearlessly in your calling to make disciples. Pray for Anchor Church that we’d become fearless followers of Jesus.
