I Am Afraid. What Should I do?
5 Ways to Strengthen Yourself in the Lord (Even If You're New to Faith)
I took this photo on the way home from our trip last week. Talk about a sign.
Missiles, earthquakes, rumors of war... It’s a lot, especially when you’re just trying to pay the bills and shepherd your family. The algorithmic onslaught aimed at your identity is everywhere, even in innocent cartoons.
Here’s the truth:
The narrative you digest shapes the fear you carry.
If you’ve felt anxious or afraid, I pray you’ve been doing what we will unpack today. If you do, then, like King David, no matter the circumstances, you will find supernatural strength in the Lord.
📖 Psalm 56:3–4
“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.
In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid.”
1 Samuel 30:6 (ESV)
“And David was greatly distressed, for the people spoke of stoning him, because all the people were bitter in soul, each for his sons and daughters. But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.”
This is one of the most powerful phrases in Scripture.
The Hebrew word for “strengthened” is ḥāzaq (חָזַק) — meaning to be strong, grow firm, or take courage.
But how did David do that?
We find the answers by tracing the patterns of his life and the psalms he penned in distress. These aren’t ancient rituals — they’re rhythms we can live by.
How Did David Strengthen Himself in the Lord?
1. He Remembered God’s Faithfulness
David had history with God. The lion. The bear. Goliath. When threats, betrayal, and despair surrounded him, David paused and remembered God’s unchanging character and past deliverances.
“When I am afraid, I put my trust in You…” — Psalm 56:3
Emotions make terrible leaders but wise teachers.
David trained his heart to turn to God’s track record, not his feelings.
2. He Preached to Himself
David didn’t let his soul lead — he led his soul.
“Why, my soul, are you downcast? … Put your hope in God.” — Psalm 42:5
He reflected, meditated, and declared truth until his internal world aligned with God’s promises. This wasn’t denial — it was discipleship of the soul.
3. He Worshiped and Prayed
Though the text in 1 Samuel 30 doesn’t record his exact words, David immediately asks for the ephod — a garment used to seek God’s will. This signaled prayer and likely worship.
He didn’t react in panic. He postured himself in humility.
This is where strength grows — in surrender.
4. He Anchored Himself in God’s Word
Psalm 56, written when the Philistines captured David, repeatedly mentions God’s Word:
“In God, whose word I praise…” — Psalm 56:4, 10
David didn’t just hope vaguely — he clung to the specific promises of God. Scripture became his anchor, his sword, and his shield.
5. He Acted in Faith, Not Fear
After strengthening himself, David moved. He pursued the enemy, rescued the captives, and recovered everything. Spiritual strength led to spiritual action.
He didn’t wait to feel better. He ran toward obedience — trusting God to meet him in the steps.
So How Do You Strengthen Yourself in the Lord?
Whether you’ve walked with Jesus for years or just started, these simple practices will anchor you.
5 Ways to Strengthen Yourself in the Lord
(Even If You’re New to Faith)
1. Talk to God Honestly (Prayer)
David didn’t use polished language — he poured out his heart.
“Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you.” — Psalm 55:22
Example:
“God, I’m scared… confused… angry… but I want to trust You. Help me.”
God doesn’t need eloquence. He wants your heart.
2. Get Into the Word (Even Just One Verse)
Start small. One verse a day. Ask:
What does this show me about who God is?
What is God saying to me?
“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” — Matthew 4:4
“In God, whose word I praise…” — Psalm 56:4
Consistency in the Word deepens intimacy, and that intimacy strengthens you in both crisis and peace.
3. Sing or Listen to Worship
Music opens the heart and renews your mind.
“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” — Nehemiah 8:10
“He put a new song in my mouth…” — Psalm 40:3
Put on a worship song and whisper, “God, I want to believe this.”
4. Speak Truth Over Yourself (Biblical Affirmations)
Declare Scripture with “I” language. This renews your mind and reshapes your inner dialogue.
Examples:
“I am not alone — God is with me.” (Isaiah 41:10)
“I am God’s child.” (John 1:12)
“I can’t do this alone, but God gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13)
This is how David strengthened himself — he spoke God’s truth over His life.
5. Surround Yourself With People Who Love Jesus
Even one Christ-following friend can change your walk.
📖 “Two are better than one… a cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” — Ecclesiastes 4:9–12
Ask someone: “Will you walk with me in my faith journey?”
Simple Daily Rhythm (The Never Finished Strength Plan)
Same time. Same place. Every day.
Read one verse and reflect: What does this say about God?
Speak one truth out loud from that verse.
Talk to God honestly for 2–3 minutes.
Ask God for a strong relationship from this consistency, and watch your spirit grow stronger in Him.
What Does Today Say About God?
Available.
Ever needed help and the perfect person wasn’t available? I have.
But God? He’s always available.
What a God.
What a King.
What a Friend.
What a Father.
Thank You, Jesus.