Psalms 56:3
What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.Psalms 56:3
What does Psalms 56:3 mean?
David admits plainly that he experiences fear, and responds by choosing to trust in God. It doesn't pretend fear is absent — it names fear honestly and places trust right alongside it as the response.
Context
Psalm 56 is attributed to David during a time when he was seized by the Philistines in Gath (see the psalm's superscription, referencing 1 Samuel 21:10-15), a genuinely dangerous and frightening situation. Verse 3 captures his honest response in that moment of real threat.
Key themes
Related Bible verses
He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy is he.
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
Bible study
- Why do you think David states his fear so plainly, rather than denying it?
- What does it mean that trust is David's response 'at the time' he is afraid, rather than only afterward?
- How does this verse give you permission to be honest about fear while still choosing to trust God?
Prayer
A short devotional prayer inspired by this verse — not scripture
Lord, when I am afraid, I will trust in You — not because the fear isn't real, but because You are more real still. Amen.
Memorize this verse
What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.
Share this verse
Frequently asked questions
What situation was David in when he wrote this psalm?
According to its superscription, it was written when the Philistines seized David in Gath (see 1 Samuel 21:10-15), a genuinely dangerous moment.
Does this verse suggest fear and trust can coexist?
Yes — David names his fear honestly and responds with a choice to trust, modeling trust as a decision made even while fear is present, not only after it's gone.