Not So Quiet Confidence

But You, O LORD, are a shield about me, My glory, and the One who lifts my head. —Psalm 3:3

In the midst of a fierce attack, David makes a declaration of his faith. He acknowledges that God is more than simply with him — God is, in fact, completely surrounding him — protecting him from all sides. And in light of David’s history as an effective warrior, he acknowledges that the glory is not his — but God’s. David is painfully aware of his shortcomings, sin, and shame, but God does not allow him to remain discouraged; rather, He repeatedly redirects David’s focus to The Provider rather than the need.

In my shortcomings, it is comforting to remember that God is with me. He is always with me. But He is so much more than with. I exist and live within Him. He literally surrounds me. And even though all of creation is within Him with me, He still knows me — and gently turns my focus from my struggles to Him.

I was crying to the LORD with my voice, And He answered me from His holy mountain. —Psalm 3:4

David recalls past deliverance and God’s faithfulness. “Was crying” suggests an extended period of prayer. This is not about “one-and-done” praying. This is repeated crying out — which seems to lead to a time of waiting for a response. And God responded. Remembering this settles David’s spirit.

My future is uncertain in ways that can't fully wrap my mind around. As of this writing, I have been crying out to the LORD regarding my possible future for over three years. While I still don't know which direction my life will take, I have a peace that could only come from Him hearing and answering.

I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the LORD sustains me. —Psalm 3:5

Because God is his sustainer, he rests — in the presence of the threat. This isn’t just passive peace; it’s an active trust under pressure.

Sleepless nights during stressful seasons can become overwhelming. Passing the hours consumed with what-if’s and I-should-have’s is exhausting. Finding rest during these seasons can seem miraculous. But that is exactly what David describes. And exactly what I have experienced. Resting in faith in the God who surrounds him, David is able to sleep — trusting that his shield will remain until he wakes.

And when he awoke, the threat was not gone. His enemy was still strong, and was still taunting him — attempting to shake his faith. But God had restored David’s faith so that he could now declare,

I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people who have set themselves against me round about. —Psalm 3:6

Even though he is apparently still surrounded by his enemies, he reminds himself not to be afraid.

This can be particularly difficult when we face trying circumstances. The details of our situations become overwhelming to the point that they are all we can see. Our doubts come rushing to the surface and drown out all other voices. Our only hope in these times is to follow David’s example, and remember what God has done in the past — both in Scripture and in our lives. As we consider God’s love and faithfulness, we stand with David, and remind ourselves, “I will not be afraid!” It’s okay if it is only “words” when we begin. If we keep repeating those words — as we continue to remember — our faith will grow, until we can finally declare, “I WILL NOT BE AFRAID!”

Jesus promises us, and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. —Matthew 28:20

And later, but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you… —Acts 1:8

With our confidence restored, we too can cry out,

Arise, O LORD; save me, O my God! —Psalm 3:7

and know that we are safe in the Hands of God.

Salvation belongs to the LORD; —Psalm 3:8

Our faith restored, we can now settle into the not so quiet assurance that victory does not rest in our hands at all — it belongs to God.