The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?1
The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.2 The fear of man is a snare. Samson gave in to Delilah because he was afraid of losing her sexual relationship.3 Saul disobeyed God because he was afraid of public opinion.4 Paul likewise warns of giving eye-service as people-pleasers.5 In our culture, we call it hiya; we are compelled to do acts of kindness not because of a benevolent heart but a fear of what people may say about us. Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.6
The gospel is liberating. There is power in the gospel. For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes . . . For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.”7
Great are the works of the LORD, studied by all who delight in them.8 The Psalmist emphasizes that it is God that works—showing four more illustrations of God’s works. It is full of splendor and majesty; wondrous; powerful; faithful and just.9
What is the importance of knowing that God works particularly for the good of those that love God10? Why must we be reminded of this truth? What effect can it have on us? So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?”11
For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.12
Do you have concerns or are you going through difficulties and trials? Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.13 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.14
But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob whom I have chosen, the offspring of Abraham, my friend; you whom I took from the ends of the earth, and called from its farthest corners, saying to you, “You are my servant, I have chosen you and not cast you off”; fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.15
Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.16
Notes:
1. Psalm 118:6
2. Proverbs 29:25
3. Judges 16:1-22
4. 1 Samuel 15:17-26
5. Ephesians 6:5-7; Colossians 3:22
6. Colossians 3:23
7. Romans 1:16-17
8. Psalm 111:2
9. Psalm 111:3-7
10. Romans 8:26-28
11. Hebrews 13:6
12. Galatians 1:10
13. James 1:2-4
14. James 1:12
15. Isaiah 41:8-10
16. Hebrews 13:20-21
