More than anything else in life, I am driven to support my family. Naturally, then, I am terrified of losing the ability to provide for my wife and future children. While working to create this stable future, I spend way too much time thinking about my career path, spending habits, financial management skills and 10-year plan.

Of course, this thinking tends to sneak into my sleep. In dreams, I lose my job, I mismanage my budget by thousands of dollars, I forget to pay rent three months in a row and end up on the street—the plot line always has a tragic twist. When I finally wake up, I’m reminded of just how much I’m afraid of failing in my role as a provider.

What fear keeps you awake at night?

Maybe you’re like me, and you constantly worry about your family’s well-being. Maybe you’re afraid of what others think of you and regularly tweak your appearance and personality in hopes of fitting in with others. Maybe you fear losing a battle with a disease or illness. Maybe you’re scared of becoming your mother or father and making the same mistakes they made.

Whatever fear plagues you today, you can turn to God’s Word for reminders of his peace and hope. These four Psalms will get you started: 

Psalm 29:11 (GNTD)

The Lord gives strength to his people and blesses them with peace.

Psalm 91:1-2 (GNTD)

Whoever goes to the Lord for safety, whoever remains under the protection of the Almighty, can say to him, “You are my defender and protector. You are my God; in you I trust.”

Psalm 46:1-2 (GNTD)

God is our mighty fortress, always ready to help in times of trouble. And so, we won’t be afraid! Let the earth tremble and the mountains tumble into the deepest sea.

Psalm 27:1 (GNTD)

The Lord is my light and my salvation; I will fear no one. The Lord protects me from all danger; I will never be afraid.