No Fear in His Presence

1. The Foundation (Introduction)

The central theme of this song is the assurance of God's presence and our refuge in Him. It echoes the profound truth found in Scripture: "The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?" (Psalm 118:6). Throughout the Bible, the Lord reassures His people of His unwavering support, and this song encapsulates this powerful promise. As we journey through life, understanding this truth is pivotal to overcoming fear and living victoriously.

2. The Historical & Biblical Context

The primary scripture, Psalm 118:6, comes from the Book of Psalms, an ancient compilation of Hebrew songs, prayers, and poems. Psalm 118 is attributed to King David, a man after God's own heart, but also suggested as post-exilic, reflecting the struggles and triumphs of Israel's return from Babylonian captivity. This psalm is a personal and communal declaration of God's steadfast love and deliverance.

David often found himself surrounded by enemies, yet he continually returned to trust in God as his refuge. His reliance on the Lord was total, transcending the might of worldly powers. Thus, the psalmist speaks not only historically but prophetically, encapsulating the cry of every believer facing adversities, reminding them that God's presence is a bulwark against fear.

3. Word Study (Hebrew/Greek)

Let us examine the word "fear" in the Hebrew context. The Hebrew word for "fear" used in Psalm 118:6 is יָרֵא ("yare"). This word implies a sense of terror or dread, a natural human reaction to potential harm or overwhelming circumstances. The psalmist’s bold refusal to succumb to yare emphasizes a profound spiritual truth: the presence of God dispels fear.

The word "refuge" in verse 8 is מַחֲסֶה ("machaseh"), denoting a place of trust or shelter. It conveys the idea that God is not merely a temporary hiding spot but a reliable stronghold. Thus, the call to take refuge in the Lord elevates the concept from physical safety to a profound spiritual reliance.

4. Theological Exposition

### Theme: God's Presence and Human Fear

The opening stanza of the song draws from Psalm 118:6, Hebrews 13:6, and Psalm 56:11. "The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?" Herein lies the foundation of divine protection. When the Lord is our helper, the fear that comes from human resistance loses its potency. Hebrews 13:6 reinforces this by asserting that confidence in the Lord disarms our anxiety about man's intentions.

### Trust versus Human Reliance

Verses 8 and 9 of Psalm 118 express that trusting in the Lord supersedes confidence in humans or earthly powers, whether commoners or princes. Jeremiah 17:5-7 contrasts cursing the person who trusts in man from who trusts in the Lord. The psalmist advises an unwavering preference for divine refuge rather than succumbing to the illusion of human security.

### Triumphant Assurance

The repeated refrain—"The Lord is on my side, I will not fear. What can man do to me?"—restates a truth found throughout Scripture. Romans 8:31 poignantly asks, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" This eternal assurance not only rekindles faith but also fosters a perspective of triumph over enemies. Such assurance comes not from merely believing in God's strength but in experiencing His personal adhesion to our cause.

5. Practical Application: How to Walk This Out

### Proclamation 1: Find Refuge in God's Presence

First, we must immerse ourselves in God's Word to find our refuge. Scriptural meditation transforms fear into faith. Spend time absorbing the promises found in Psalm 91:1-2, which declare that dwelling in the secret place of the Most High provides unparalleled safety.

### Proclamation 2: Declare God's Promises

Second, declare these truths aloud. Derek Prince often recommended verbal proclamation of Scripture as a tool of spiritual warfare. Speak out Psalm 118:6 over situations of intimidation. The spoken Word of God carries power to dismantle strongholds of fear.

### Proclamation 3: Live Out Your Identity

Third, recognize and live out your identity as one whom the Lord supports. Ephesians 1:11 says you are chosen and purposed. That divine election is not passive but active in everyday living. Approach your circumstances as God-empowered rather than self-reliant.

### Proclamation 4: Enlist the Help of the Holy Spirit

Finally, rely on the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth (John 16:13). Fear is often a distortion of reality, and the Spirit corrects such deception. Engage in prayer inviting the Holy Spirit to illuminate your understanding, giving you sight to move beyond surface fears.

6. A Proclamation & Prayer

Proclamation:

I proclaim that the Lord is my shield and strength. With Him by my side, fear has no hold over me. I trust in the Lord and not in human strength; therefore, I stand in triumph over my adversaries.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your everlasting presence. In times of fear, help me to remember that You are my refuge and my fortress. I ask for the peace that surpasses all understanding to encompass my heart. Teach me to trust You more deeply, and empower me by Your Spirit to live fearlessly. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.