Trusting God When I Feel Afraid

Fear has many faces. Sometimes it’s the quiet anxiety that creeps in at night, whispering “what if” over and over again. Other times it’s a full-blown panic that leaves your heart pounding and your mind spinning. It can show up as fear of failure, fear of loss, fear of rejection, or fear of the unknown.What do we do when we’re afraid—even as people of faith? Do we try to fake confidence? Do we hide it and pretend we’re strong? Or do we bring that fear to God, as raw and real as it is?

The Honesty of Fear

“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” – Psalm 56:3 (NIV)

This verse is simple, but powerful. It doesn’t say “if” I’m afraid—it says when. Fear is a part of life, even for the faithful. The key isn’t in pretending we’re fearless, but in deciding where we turn when fear comes.David, the writer of this psalm, was being hunted by his enemies. His life was literally on the line. And yet, he made a choice: “I will put my trust in You.” Trusting God in fear isn’t always a feeling—it’s a decision. It’s choosing to lean into God’s strength when ours runs out.

God Doesn’t Leave You in Fear

God never shames us for feeling afraid. Over and over in Scripture, His response to fear is comfort:

• “Do not be afraid, for I am with you.” – Isaiah 41:10
• “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” – Psalm 27:1
• “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you… Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” – John 14:27

He promises His presence, His peace, and His power. Not necessarily the absence of storms—but the confidence that He is in the boat with us.

A Personal Reflection

Think of a time you felt completely overwhelmed. Maybe it was news you didn’t expect, a loss that shook you, or a change that left you uncertain. What did you do with that fear? Did you carry it alone, or did you let God carry you through it?God’s trustworthiness doesn’t depend on how strong we feel—it depends on who He is. And He is faithful, loving, and constant.

What Trust Looks Like in Fear

Trust doesn’t mean the fear disappears right away. Sometimes it’s:

• Whispering a prayer when you don’t have the words.
• Taking one small step forward.
• Reminding yourself of who God has been in your past.
• Asking others to pray with you.
• Reading Scriptures that remind you of His promises.

Even in your fear, you can still be full of faith. Fear doesn’t cancel faith—it invites it.

A Prayer:

God, I bring You my fear. It’s heavy and I don’t know what to do with it, but I know You can handle it. Help me to trust You—not just with words, but with my heart. Show me that You’re near. Teach me to rest in Your promises. I choose to trust You today, even in my fear. Amen.