Trust Over Fear
BRD REFLECTION 2026
Genesis 23 and Psalm 83:1-8 (NIV)
(Jennifer Ho, Strangely Warmed Retreat Committee)
READ:
Psalm 83:1-8 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
Psalm 83:1–8 is a cry to God in a time of danger.
The psalmist sees enemies gathering together against God’s people and urgently calls on the Lord not to remain silent (v. 1). The psalmist begs God to break His silence. The “tumult” (noise) of the wicked is currently drowning out the presence of the divine (v. 2).
This passage also shows that attacks against God’s people are ultimately resistance against God Himself (v. 2 & 3).
Ten different groups (v. 6-8), some historical rivals, have set aside their differences. Their only common ground is their desire to see Israel “remembered no more.”
The enemies in this passage are united in evil purpose, but their unity cannot overpower God’s sovereignty.
APPLY:
It reminds me that when opposition rises, my first response should be prayer, not panic. I belong to the Lord, He takes my struggles personally. He is not indifferent to injustice, betrayal, or hardship.
Sometimes in life, challenges seem to come from many directions at once (like the ten nations listed) – people, stress, fear, uncertainty, or spiritual battles. Like the psalmist, I may wonder, “God, why are You silent?” Yet silence does not mean absence. God is still watching, still ruling, and still able to act at the right time. This passage validates the feeling of being overwhelmed but redirects that feeling into a prayer rather than a panic. I can bring everything before God. He may not move in my timing, but He never ignores the cries of His children.
DO:
I will:
- Spend 10 minutes praying honestly about what is against me and those problems that surround me.
- Replace panic with prayer whenever stress rises to feel God’s presence in the midst of His silence.
- Write down one situation I need to trust God with and trust Him who sees hidden opposition and stress.
PRAY:
Heavenly Father, when troubles surround me, help me trust You. When You seem silent, remind me You are near. Be my refuge, protect my heart from fear, and give me peace. Teach me to pray first and stand firm in faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
