This psalm by King David reveals one of his strategies for overcoming fear in the face of opposition and adversity – he intentionally and firmly puts his confidence and trust in God and His promises. David knew that if we will learn to keep our trust in the Lord and His Word, He will equip us with everything we need to succeed in every situation that comes our way.

What is the biggest problem people are facing in the midst of this COVID-19 crisis? It’s fear. As followers of Christ, you and I don’t have to be overcome with fear in the midst of this pandemic. God has given us promises to lay hold of which can dissolve our fears, and enable us to set a Christlike example that will inspire others. We can meditate on – and declare – God’s Word which says, “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV) And we can pray for deliverance from ALL of our fears on the basis of God’s promise in Psalm 34:4 (NIV): “I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.” The beauty of this particular promise is that it’s already in the form of a powerful declaration of faith.

Multitudes of Christians are praying and standing on God’s promises of safety and deliverance in Psalm 91 during this pandemic, with good reason. Here, God’s Word promises divine protection, including angelic protection, to those who belong to the Lord, and put their wholehearted trust in Him. This psalm specifically declares that God’s people will be protected from every plague and pestilence. (v. 3, 6) For years, I have declared daily, “Though a thousand fall at my side, though ten thousand at my right hand, it will not come near me!” (v. 7) I also continually claim God’s promise which assures me that – “The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him, and delivers them.” (Psalm 34:7 NKJV) Hallelujah!

Are you concerned about your needs being met during this worldwide crisis? Stand on God’s promise which says, “God will liberally supply (fill to the full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19 AMP) Before my husband, Joe, even retired, I began thanking and praising God that He gives us “food and provision” because we fear and reverence Him. (Psalm 111:5 AMP) And I am continually amazed at how the Lord goes out of His way to prove His promises to us.

Today, in the midst of these turbulent times, I say – “Let’s keep a firm grip on the promises that keep us going. God always keeps His word!” (Hebrews 10:23 MSG)

Prayer: Lord, help me to always see You as “the God who keeps every promise.” (Psalm 46:6 TLB) Work in my heart so that my first response to trouble will be to put my trust in You and Your promises. Help me to memorize and meditate on Your Word continually, so that Your Spirit can remind me of Your promises day and night. Today, O Lord, I earnestly pray: “Never forget Your promises to me Your servant, for they are my only hope. They give me strength in all my troubles; how they refresh and revive me!” (Psalm 119:49-50 TLB) - J. M. Farro