Psalm 27
If you struggle with fear and anxiety, you're not alone. People have been facing this since the beginning of time. Psalm 27 explores how you can find comfort despite your fear by experiencing God's power.
Need Help Now?Understanding Psalm 27
Who wrote Psalm 27?
Psalm 27 is one poem in a book of songs and verses. Some of these poems were written by King David, who faced many life-threatening circumstances and wars in his lifetime. Though he became a powerful king, it doesn't mean he wasn’t afraid when his life was threatened. In his fear, he often wrote prayers, asking for God's help. Psalm 27 is an example of this.
What Does Psalm 27 Say?
The message of Psalm 27 can be summarized in verse 5, which says, "For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock." When David is afraid, he cries out for God's help and remembers how wonderful it is to experience God’s comfort. He expresses his desire to dwell in God’s house (the temple) and to seek God's face (His presence.) Though he doesn't experience an immediate fix to all his problems, David writes that, though his enemies surround him, "I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living." So he reminds himself to wait on God and be patient because he knows God will protect him.
What is the most popular verse in Psalm 27?
The most popular verse in Psalm 27 is likely Psalm 27:1, which says, "The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?" This verse is so well-loved because it resonates with something we all face, which is fear. David's poetic words read like a self-affirmation, reminding our hearts that we don't need to be afraid when the God of the universe is protecting us. We can depend on Him to save us, placing our hope and trust in His power when we feel helpless.
What Should I Do When I Feel Afraid?
When you feel afraid, the first step is to acknowledge your fear and identify what is true about your situation instead of just what feels true. In Psalm 27, David starts by reminding himself that God is bigger than the situation causing his fear. He finds comfort despite his anxiety as he looks at the big picture. His fear is valid because he’s surrounded by enemies, but he also knows that God will protect him. When you are afraid, you can do the same thing David did and ask God for help. Simply express your fear to God and ask Him to ease your anxiety. We can always trust in Him, no matter how scary the situation. Just like God protected David, He will also care for you!
