DEBT: The Fear of Financial Collapse | Dr. David Jeremiah | Psalm 37
DEBT: The Fear of Financial Collapse | Dr. David Jeremiah | Psalm 37
The Bible calls us to delight in the Lord, as written in Psalm 37:4:
“Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.”
Even when life feels void of joy and filled with hardship, we can find true delight in our relationship with God. Loss, oppression, and challenges do not define us—they refine us. Our identity is rooted in our relationship with Almighty God, not in the difficulties we face.
This verse also carries a promise that is often misunderstood. Let’s explore its deeper meaning.
Understanding God’s Promise
The Bible repeatedly commands us: “Fear not.” In fact, it is the most frequent command in Scripture, appearing over 200 times. Many biblical figures, despite their faith, struggled with fear. This reminds us that fear is a common human experience.
Let me share the story of Athela Lopez, whose journey illustrates these truths.
Athela was ready to enjoy her golden years after working tirelessly for decades. Her well-planned retirement gave her a sense of security—until one day, her pension check didn’t arrive. Calls to her investment firm were met with silence; the company had vanished. Her savings were gone, stolen, leaving her unable to pay her mortgage.
As fear gripped her heart, she turned to God. The pain of loss taught her an important truth: Earthly security is fleeting, but God’s promises endure.
God’s Comfort in Times of Fear
When we lose what feels essential—our homes, finances, or sense of stability—where do we turn? The Bible offers solace in times of fear and uncertainty. The Psalms are particularly powerful for those seeking comfort.
Psalm 37 speaks directly to our hearts when financial struggles or injustice weigh heavily on us. It addresses the pressing question:
“Why do those who ignore God’s ways seem to prosper, while those who obey Him face hardship?”
To navigate such moments, Psalm 37 and Psalm 73 provide profound guidance. These Scriptures remind us that God sees our struggles and calls us to trust Him.
Seven Principles from Psalm 37
In Psalm 37, God offers clear instructions for those facing insecurity and fear. Here are seven principles from the first few verses that can transform your outlook:
- Trust in the Lord (Psalm 37:3) – Believe in God’s faithfulness, even when circumstances seem bleak.
- Delight in Him (Psalm 37:4) – Focus on building a relationship with God, and your heart’s desires will align with His perfect will.
- Commit Your Way to the Lord (Psalm 37:5) – Surrender your plans to God, trusting Him to lead you.
- Rest in the Lord (Psalm 37:7) – Practice patience, knowing that God’s timing is perfect.
- Do Not Fret (Psalm 37:8) – Let go of anxiety and trust in God’s justice.
- Be Generous (Psalm 37:21) – Share what you have, trusting that God will provide.
- Wait on the Lord (Psalm 37:34) – Stay faithful and watch how God works all things for good.
