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Psalm 56:1-7  
For the director of music. To the tune of “A Dove on Distant Oaks.” Of David. A miktam. When the Philistines had seized him in Gath.

Be merciful to me, my God, for my enemies are in hot pursuit; all day long they press their attack. My adversaries pursue me all day long; in their pride many are attacking me. When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise—in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? All day long they twist my words; all their schemes are for my ruin. They conspire, they lurk, they watch my steps, hoping to take my life. Because of their wickedness do not let them escape; in your anger, God, bring the nations down.

My friend is a daredevil…to say the least. I had never seen him back down from anything. “Risk taker” aptly describes him. That’s why I was so surprised when he wouldn’t climb the pole to the zip line platform. Granted the platform was high and the climb precarious but I never expected him to say, “I’m not climbing that pole!” No matter how much we encouraged and cajoled, his feet stayed planted on the ground. Here’s one thing I concluded from my friend’s refusal: Everybody has a “Pole of Fear.” You may be described as a risk taker, but there is something you won’t or can’t do because of your fear.

So what is your “Pole of Fear?” Does it have to do with your family? Is it found in relationships? Do you fear getting close to others?  Maybe your “Pole of Fear” makes itself known in your job. Maybe your self-doubt is a subconscious paralyzer. Maybe you fear failure. You can’t stand the thought of letting someone down or letting someone see you vulnerable. Or maybe your “Pole of Fear” is getting close to God and letting others help you in the process.

Remember, everyone has a “Pole of Fear.” The words “fear” and “afraid” are found 483 times in the Bible! But the remedy for fear is found in today’s passage. The psalmist says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. . . in God I trust and am not afraid.” So turn your fear over to God. He is more than capable of turning your “Pole of Fear” into a pathway of faith.

Father, we are all afraid of something. As we stand before our poles of fear today, help us trust in You. Thank You for giving us everything we need to climb. In Jesus’ name. Amen.