Trusting God

What it means

David admits fear and then answers it: when I am afraid I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, I will not fear.

Why every Christian should know it

It shows that trust and fear can occupy the same moment. Trust is what you do with fear, not proof you never felt it.

Cross references

• Isaiah 41:10
• Psalms 27:1
• 2 Timothy 1:7

Pray it back

Lord, I am afraid, and I am trusting you. Both are true. Hold me in the second one.

What it means

God works all things together for good for those who love him and are called according to his purpose. The good is defined in the next verse as becoming like Christ.

Why every Christian should know it

It is often misused as a promise of comfortable outcomes. Read with verse 29, it becomes a far stronger comfort.

Cross references

• Romans 8:29
• Genesis 50:20
• Philippians 1:12

Pray it back

Father, you are working even this into the likeness of your Son in me. I trust your definition of good.

What it means

A person plans his course, but the Lord establishes his steps. Planning is not faithless, but God has the final word.

Why every Christian should know it

It frees you to make plans and to hold them loosely, which is the posture that survives disappointment.

Cross references

• James 4:13-15
• Psalms 37:23
• Jeremiah 10:23

Pray it back

Lord, here are my plans. Establish my steps, and correct me where I am set on the wrong road.

What it means

God keeps in perfect peace the mind that is steadfast, because it trusts in him.

Why every Christian should know it

It links peace to where your mind rests. Peace is guarded, not manufactured.

Cross references

• Philippians 4:7
• Colossians 3:2
• Psalms 112:7

Pray it back

Keep my mind stayed on you, Lord, and guard it with the peace only you give.