Praying Our Fears
Timothy Keller Sermons Podcast by Gospel in Life
Deep Dive
Why is fear considered the most primal of all emotions?
Fear is the first sound a baby makes when entering the world, expressing confusion and discomfort with the new environment. It is a natural response to the unknown and the sudden change from the womb to the outside world.
What does David teach about handling fear in Psalm 3?
David shows that there are two levels of fear: physical threat and psychological/spiritual attack on identity. He also outlines four steps to overcome fear: follow your thread (obey God), relocate your glory (find identity in God), see the substitute (trust in God's provision), and remember the people (act in love for others).
How does David's experience with fear in Psalm 3 relate to modern anxiety?
David's fear has two levels, similar to how modern theorists like Rollo May distinguish between specific, healthy fear and diffuse, debilitating anxiety. David's deeper fear is rooted in an attack on his identity, which parallels the modern experience of existential anxiety.
What is the difference between fear and anxiety according to Rollo May?
Fear is specific and constructive, focusing on a clear threat and motivating action. Anxiety, on the other hand, is diffuse and paralyzing, often rooted in a threat to one's sense of self or identity, making it harder to act or make decisions.
How does David's approach to fear in Psalm 3 provide a model for dealing with anxiety?
David's method involves not suppressing or venting emotions, but praying them out in the presence of God. This allows him to process his fear and anxiety, ultimately finding peace and a renewed sense of identity in God.
What does David mean by 'follow your thread' in Psalm 3?
Following your thread means obeying God even when it leads into danger or situations that seem confusing or painful. David recognizes that God's protection works when he moves forward in obedience, not when he retreats or disobeys.
How does David relocate his glory in Psalm 3?
David shifts his sense of worth and identity from external sources like his popularity, family, or moral record to God's approval and love. By doing so, he no longer relies on finite, vulnerable things for his sense of security and glory.
What biblical event does David reflect on to understand God's love and approval?
David reflects on the story of Abraham in Genesis 15, where God takes an oath by passing through the animal pieces, symbolizing that He would bear the consequences of Abraham's disobedience. This event shows God's commitment to blessing and protecting His people.
How does the story of Jesus' crucifixion relate to overcoming fear?
Jesus' willingness to follow God's will, even into the grave, demonstrates that obedience can lead to resurrection and new life. This shows that fear can be overcome by trusting in God's plan, even when it involves suffering or uncertainty.
What is the role of community and love in overcoming fear?
The Bible teaches that the opposite of fear is love. To fully overcome fear, one must engage in community and act in love for others, shifting focus away from self-centeredness and toward serving others.
Shownotes Transcript