From Fear To Trust – Be Centred In Christ
BRD REFLECTION 2026
Genesis 20 and Psalm 80:1-11 (NIV)
(Kevyn Lai, Pastoral Team)
READ:
Genesis 20 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
In Genesis 20:1-2 and 11, Abraham declared Sarah to be his sister out of fear for his own life. They were travelling toward the territory of Negeb and were in Gerar. Abraham had presumed and held his prejudice that the people did not fear God, and that Abimelech, their king, would kill him because he had wanted Sarah for himself.
Abimelech took Sarah and was warned by God in his dream about the gravity of his action and the deadly consequences that would come upon him. (vv3-7)
When confronted by Abimelech, Abraham argued that Sarah was, technically, his half-sister. (v12)
Abimelech appealed to God, claiming he was innocent of any wrongdoing, and was spared. God declared that it was He who had prevented Abimelech from sinning against Him (v5-6). God allowed Abraham to intercede for Abimelech v17).
APPLY:
As I read this passage, I am led to think about the types of ‘fears’ that I may encounter in my journey through life, such as health, work and relationships. This passage also reminded me of how even when I am obedient to God and follow Him closely, under the pressure of such ‘fears’, losing focus and trust in God, I may make poor choices.
Even so, I am also reminded that despite people’s faithlessness, God remains faithful to His covenant. God’s sovereignty will not be compromised.
A question I have for myself: How do I place my trust in God and not let my fears overwhelm me?
DO:
I will continue to practise the Spiritual Disciplines of Lectio Divina and Examen, where I can be still to focus on God and be aware of His presence in all facets of my life.
PRAY:
Dear Lord,
Thank You for being my faithful and loving Father.
I seek Your forgiveness for the poor choices I made out of ‘fear’.
I pray for Your guidance so that I can tell when ‘fear’ begins to overwhelm me.
I pray for deeper faith in You, so that I can place my trust in You.
In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
