This post was last updated on June 1, 2026

Day 58 (Year 2)

Those Who Believe in the Lord Need Not Fear

“The LORD is the defense of my life; Whom shall I dread?” (Psalm 27:1b NASB)

The word “defense” in the above scripture comes from the Hebrew word ma’oz, which also means “a place of safety, a refuge, or a fortress,” carrying the sense of being protected by God or others. In some translations, this word is rendered as “strength, or strong.” In other words, when God became the psalmist’s place of safety, he received strength and needed no fear. Likewise, when God becomes believers’ refuge and protection, we receive strength to overcome inner fear. We need not run away, but dismantle and overcome whatever and whoever causes fear, and eventually remain unharmed.

We need to cultivate the habit of relying on God to clear away and overcome fear, rather than allowing various fears to accumulate. Some people use sound reasoning to combat irrational beliefs, and thus eliminate some fears. When we were children, we faced many problems but did not know how to handle them, and fear arose naturally. But as we grow older and gain a better understanding, we discover ways to address various problems, clear away inner fears, and become increasingly courageous.

In fact, fear has a positive function. It alerts and helps us avoid danger. However, many experience excessive fear, where what should be an emotional signal or a warning becomes a bondage that overwhelms their minds and feelings. Conversely, we must ask God for help to be released from the bondage of fear. Today’s passage shows that God’s works—whether giving light, salvation, strength, or serving as a refuge—are all meant to free us from fear.

The kingdom of darkness attacks believers through various people and circumstances, especially when we genuinely believe in Jesus or enter into ministry under God’s guidance. Nevertheless, when God becomes our defense, He enables us to overcome attacks from the devil and others. Thus, we must firmly rely on Jesus as our refuge. At times, we need to sing helpful worship songs or meditate on relevant scriptures to encourage ourselves to trust in God according to His promises, pray to Him, and develop a heart that leans on Jesus. For instance, when experiencing unexplained fear or feeling under spiritual attack, we should pray repeatedly in the name of the Lord Jesus to drive away fears from the devil, and ask for His peace to fill our hearts. Afterward, He will clear away all our fears, and it becomes easier to discern the direction He is guiding us in prayers or the actions we should take.

Reflection questions:

1) Are you easily afraid? If so, how do you need to rely on the Lord to change yourself?

2) Do you need God to be your defense? If so, how will you rely on Him?