52 Workday Prayers: Psalm 46 - When Fear Rises Up in Your Heart

God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.

Psalm 46:1-2

Prayer

Gracious God, sometimes at work I feel fear rising in my heart. It may be that I’m afraid of conflict with my boss. Or perhaps I’ve made a mistake that could be costly. Sometimes I worry about whether I’ll still have my job, whether my position will be phased out or the funds just won’t be there to keep me employed.

There are times when my fear is more about whether what I’m doing is worthwhile. I worry that I’m wasting my energy, my time, my life. What if I’ve taken the wrong course, Lord?

When fear begins to rise, if I focus on the fear, it will soon possess me. Anxiety will steal my joy and my sleep. It can feel as if the earth is giving away beneath me. Nothing is secure. No place is safe.

But if I can remember you, fear subsides. You are my refuge. You protect me from harm. You are my strength. You enable me to do far more than all I could ask or imagine. You are my help, always present when I need you, even in times when I can’t perceive you or when I am gripped by doubt.

Help me, dear Lord, to know that you are there and that you are with me. May I take comfort in your protection. May I be empowered by your strength. May I live, not in fear, but in the confidence that comes from knowing you. Amen.

Ponder Throughout the Day

As you work today, God is indeed your refuge and strength. Don’t be afraid!

For Further Reflection

Read all of Psalm 46, paying attention to what the Spirit of God is stirring up in your heart, especially in relationship to your work. Talk with God about what you are thinking and feeling.

You might also reflect on the following passages from Matthew and Romans:

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. And even the hairs of your head are all counted. So do not be afraid; you are of more value than many sparrows. – Matthew 10:29

For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption. When we cry, “Abba! Father!” it is that very Spirit bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ—if, in fact, we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him. – Romans 8:15-17

This prayer is part of a collection: 52 Workday Prayers: Learn from the Psalms How to Pray through Your Work. To purchase this devotional and small group guide, visit the De Pree Center store.