The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?
Fear is a powerful emotion that can grip our hearts and minds, leaving us paralyzed and anxious. It’s natural to experience fear when facing uncertainty or challenges, especially when it involves the opinions and actions of other people.
In Psalm 118:6, we find a profound declaration of fearless confidence. The psalmist declares, “The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid.” This statement holds a key to living a life unburdened by the fear of human judgment.
When we acknowledge that the Lord is with us, something remarkable happens. Our perspective shifts from the limited power of mortals to the infinite strength and presence of God. We recognize that the Creator of the universe is on our side, guiding and protecting us.
The question posed in this verse, “What can mere mortals do to me?” serves as a powerful reminder that our ultimate security and worth come from our relationship with God. The judgments, criticisms, and actions of people, no matter how influential or intimidating they may seem, pale in comparison to the assurance we have in God’s presence.
Throughout our lives, we encounter situations where the fear of others’ opinions or actions can hold us back. It might be the fear of rejection, the fear of not measuring up, or the fear of being misunderstood. But when we internalize the truth of Psalm 118:6, we find the courage to press forward with confidence.
Consider the times when fear of man has hindered you from stepping into your true calling or expressing your faith boldly. How can you overcome this fear and live more boldly for Christ?
How might your life change if you consistently applied the truth of Psalm 118:6, declaring, “The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”
Think about a recent situation where you faced the challenge of balancing sensitivity to others’ opinions with your independence in Christ. How did you navigate this tension, and what did you learn from the experience?
How can you continue to grow in this area?