Encourage Yourself: Finding Divine Protection in Fearful Times
“We have nothing to fear, but fear itself.” - Franklin D. Roosevelt
Trusting God for divine protection is not always easy, especially when news media, social media, and our environment often present us with clear and present danger. How often have you been fearful as a child of God, but then remembered a verse of scripture and felt comforted or assured because the scripture says, “God is not a man that he should lie” (Numbers 23:19)?
Finding Comfort in Scripture
The Psalms have long been a source of comfort for believers facing challenging circumstances. Psalm 91 and Psalm 23 particularly remind us of God’s protective presence in our lives, offering reassurance that we are never alone, even in our darkest moments.
A Personal Testimony of Divine Protection
Some time ago, I was traveling in a lonely wooded area. The weather suddenly changed, the sky opened, and it started to pour down snow. I always dreaded driving in inclement weather and was scared. Several scenarios raced through my mind, including abandoning the car—which wasn’t wise. I considered parking and waiting for the snow to stop, but the more I thought about it, the more afraid I became.
Amid all the fearful thoughts and the monstrous weather, a verse of scripture interrupted my anxious mind:
“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” - Psalm 23:4
Almost immediately, I was no longer afraid. I kept repeating the scripture to myself all the way home and, glory to God, I made it safely home. The snow continued falling heavily, but I drove through the treacherous weather trusting in the Lord, who promised to “keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Him” (Isaiah 26:3).
The Living Word
It has been said that the word of God is a sickle for life, and I have experienced its truth firsthand. The right word at the right time in the right situation can be a source of encouragement for anyone needing upliftment.
A Prayer for Protection
I pray that God’s word may heal us where we need healing and deliver us where we need deliverance, for it is in His word that we find strength and reassurance. When fear threatens to overwhelm us, may we remember the divine protection promised in Psalm 91:
“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.’” - Psalm 91:1-2
Encouragement for Your Journey
When you face your next fearful situation, try these practical steps:
- Recall scripture verses that speak to God’s protection
- Speak them aloud to combat anxious thoughts
- Remember past situations where God has protected you
- Share your testimonies with others who need encouragement
Have you experienced divine protection in a moment of fear? We’d love to hear your story in the comments below.