✟ The Lord Is My Light and My Salvation

Psalm 27:1–3 (NLT)
The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid?
The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?
When evil people come to devour me,
when my enemies and foes attack me,
they will stumble and fall.
Though a mighty army surrounds me,
my heart will not be afraid.
Even if I am attacked,
I will remain confident.

The words of David ring through the ages with profound confidence: “The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid?” In these verses, David does not begin with his problems, but with his God. He reminds himself, and us, that no matter what dangers surround us, the Lord is greater than any enemy, any fear, or any circumstance. True courage is not found in our own strength or ability but in knowing who God is—our light, our salvation, and our fortress.

In today’s world, fear is a constant companion for many. Whether it is financial uncertainty, family strife, health concerns, or the moral decay of society, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Yet David gives us a model: begin not with fear, but with faith.

David paints three pictures of God’s character that give him boldness:

• Light: God brings illumination in the midst of darkness. Just as light removes shadows, God’s presence removes confusion, fear, and doubt. Jesus Himself declared in John 8:12, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”
• Salvation: David knows that his deliverance is not found in weapons, armies, or alliances, but in the Lord. God rescues us not only from earthly enemies but also from sin and eternal separation from Him.
• Fortress: A fortress is a stronghold that cannot be breached by enemies. God surrounds and protects His people, keeping them safe within His care.

When we are tempted to fear, we must remind ourselves of these truths: the Lord lights our path, saves our souls, and guards us as His own.

David does not sugarcoat his situation. He speaks plainly of evil people and enemies who rise against him. Yet he also declares with certainty, “They will stumble and fall.” His confidence is not in his military ability but in the God who has delivered him time and time again.

We, too, face opposition. Sometimes it comes in the form of individuals who oppose our faith, other times as spiritual warfare, and still other times as the trials of life itself. But like David, we must look back on God’s faithfulness. Has He not sustained us through past difficulties? Has He not provided when resources seemed impossible? The same God who was faithful then will be faithful now.

David even contemplates the terrifying possibility of war: “Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will not be afraid. Even if I am attacked, I will remain confident.” What extraordinary courage! He acknowledges the danger but refuses to give fear the final word.

This is the essence of faith. Faith does not deny the reality of danger, pain, or hardship. Rather, faith declares that God is greater than all of them. Faith refuses to tremble when armies march against us, because the Lord of Hosts fights for us.

Our world today is filled with uncertainties—economic instability, global unrest, and moral chaos. Yet we, as followers of Christ, must declare with David: “Even if I am attacked, I will remain confident.”

As we reflect on David’s declaration, let us ask ourselves: Where am I tempted to fear? Perhaps it is in matters of health, finances, or family. Perhaps it is the direction of our nation or the darkness of society. Whatever the source, we must remember: the Lord is our light, our salvation, and our fortress.

We must replace fear with faith by boldly declaring our trust in God, just as David did. Each morning, begin your day by speaking these words aloud: “The Lord is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid?” Let that declaration strengthen your spirit and remind you of who truly holds your life in His hands.

So, I say to you, “May the Lord strengthen your faith and use it for His glory, as you walk humbly in His presence.”