A Prayer About Fear - 365 Pocket Evening Prayers

When I feel afraid

MY GREAT SHEPHERD,

I get so afraid, and I need you close, to find my hope and security in you. Fear hits suddenly, without warning, often totally unexpected. It can be numbing, debilitating, even paralyzing. Because of all the media options these days, I know much about what is going on around the world, and that gets to me, especially when the news at home and abroad seems terrible. I begin to feel as though the world is falling apart. Or a mysterious physical symptom blindsides me, and I think the worst. Another recurring fear relates to my financial security and the future. Little children often are afraid of storms or animals or monsters under the bed—immature and irrational to my older, informed way of thinking. But how must you see the source of my fears; they are nothing to you. At times, of course, I need to have a healthy fear. But in every situation I need to stay close to you, as a lamb to its Shepherd, protected and secure in your presence and following your lead.

Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. Psalm 23:4