Fearless Focus

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me… Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies” (Psalm 23:4,5).  “Master, carest Thou not that we perish?  And He arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still.  And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.  And He said unto them, Why are ye so fearful?  How is it that ye have no faith?” (Mark 4:38-40). 

The shadow of death, from the day of our birth,

On everyone’s path is in view,

Reminding us all that our days on the earth

Are fleeting, uncertain, and few.

Now surely we ought consider our path

To focus on our destination.

We’re headed for heaven or destined for wrath:

In Christ is our only salvation!

The Lord gives a focus that casts away fear

When we put our trust in the Savior.

To know that He’s with us, though trouble is near,

Now calms every fear by His favor.

Our enemies now may draw near to our soul,

Accusing us as they are able.

We dine with the One who has made their threats null,

As Christ spreads before us a table.

Though sometimes our fears in a storm may arise,

Our Savior extends to us peace.

As Lord of creation, it is no surprise:

He speaks, and we see the storm cease.

“Why are ye so fearful?” we hear our Lord say,   

As faithlessness thus is reproved.

He gently reminds us that we went astray

When focus on Him was removed.

Lord, help us to think on the things that are true

To set our affections above,

To fearlessly focus our eyes upon You,

And rest in Your infinite love.