Bible Verse

Psalm 27:1

David declares his confidence in God despite facing enemies and danger, expressing trust that eliminates fear.

"The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?"

— Psalm 27:1 (NIV)

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Other Translations

"The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"

— ESV

"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?"

— KJV

"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?"

— NLT

Understanding the Context

Book Context

Psalm 27 is a psalm of trust and confidence. It moves from bold declaration (vv. 1-6) to prayer (vv. 7-12) to encouragement (vv. 13-14).

Historical Background

Likely written during David's time fleeing from enemies, possibly Saul or Absalom. Despite real threats to his life, David finds courage in God's character.

Verse-by-Verse Breakdown

"The LORD is my light"

'Light' represents guidance, truth, revelation, and hope. In darkness of confusion or danger, God illuminates the path. Light also dispels fear—what we can see clearly we fear less.

"and my salvation"

'Salvation' (Hebrew: yeshua) means deliverance, rescue, safety. God doesn't just guide (light) but saves. Past deliverance gives confidence for present threats. Ultimately points to eternal salvation.

"whom shall I fear?"

Rhetorical question expecting answer: 'no one.' If God—who is all-powerful—is for me, who can successfully oppose me? This isn't denying danger but declaring that no enemy is greater than God.

"The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?"

'Stronghold' is a fortified place of refuge and protection. God isn't just external helper but the very foundation and protection of life itself. Second rhetorical question reinforces: fear is illogical when God is your defender.

Key Themes

God as lightDeliverance and salvationFreedom from fearGod as refugeConfidence in God

Applying This Verse to Your Life

  1. 1

    When facing fear, rehearse God's identity as light, salvation, and stronghold until fear subsides.

  2. 2

    Replace 'what if' fears with 'even if' faith—even if danger is real, God is greater.

  3. 3

    Let God's past faithfulness build confidence for current challenges.

  4. 4

    Seek God's light and guidance when confused or in darkness about what to do.

  5. 5

    Encourage fearful believers by pointing them to God's character, not just circumstances.

Questions for Reflection

  • What person or circumstance are you currently fearing that is smaller than God?
  • How has God been your light and salvation in the past?
  • What would change if you truly believed God is the stronghold of your life?
  • Are you running to God as your refuge, or trying to protect yourself?

Related Scripture

Isaiah 60:19-20

"The LORD will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory."

Psalm 46:1

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."

John 8:12

"I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

Romans 8:31

"What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?"

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