Psalm 56:3-4 - Faith Over Fear

Sanford Health has a new logo in response to COVID-19: "Facts Over Fear"
I understand the intent of phrase. Don't let fear cloud your objectivity. Don't let wild rumors cloud the facts. Fear distorts the truth, so focus on facts.

I agree with that--up to a point. But...
Knowing the fact that I have a loved one at risk to catching a virus isn't settling to my heart.
Knowing the fact that my finances are shrinking doesn't give me peace of mind.
There are any number of facts that tempt me to give in to fear.
So what can I do?

Once, when he was captured by his enemies, David wrote:
"When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You." (Psalm 56:3, New American Standard Bible)

This is not faith as some vague, spiritual abstraction.
Faith entrusts one's self to a Person. It is putting our trust in God.
It's a child putting their hand in their parent's grip when they are scared to cross a busy street.

Whatever "facts" I face, there is one, overarching fact that conquers fear:
"In God, whose word I praise, In God I have put my trust." (Psalm 56:4, NASB)

The temptation is struggle on our own, to try and muscle the fear away, until we wear out.
The first time I water skied, I gripped the rope as tight as I could, next to my chest.
Counter to my instinct, I had to relax my arms out in front of me and trust the rope to pull me.

At the precise moment when I'm most tempted to fear--that's when I should turn from fear to faith.

Fear not, I am with thee; O be not dismayed,
for I am thy God and will still give thee aid.
I’ll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand,
upheld by My righteous, omnipotent hand.
from "How Firm A Foundation"

Father, when I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. Amen.