I sought the LORD, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.
(Psalm 34:4)

How often do I rely on my own view and knowledge of a situation instead of turning to the Lord for His account? ..... More times than I should, that's for sure.  Turn to the Lord first.... not after you have tried your own way...... not after everything else has failed......turn to the Lord first.

As believers, we have the right to claim God's promises. When discouragement sneaks in and you don't feel like reading the Bible--go to the Word. When you're frustrated with life's circumstances and are tempted to quit--go to the Word.

Protect your heart from discouragement. Open the Bible. Claim His promises. And that old desperado named discouragement will be driven away.

Fear knocked at the door and faith answered. No one was there.
Old English Proverb

(This was taken from Today's Turning Point with David Jeremiah)

I really enjoyed this topic today.  Don't you find that when things aren't going well you may turn away from the Word instead of turning toward the Word?  I know that I often respond this way.  We get discouraged....we feel that God isn't listening.....we surely aren't seeing any results from praying.  All of this is beyond our understanding and we need to turn toward the Word....always .....under all circumstances......good and bad...... turn toward God's Word. Open your Bible.

He provides food for those who fear Him;
He remembers His covenant forever.
(Psalm 111:5)

Not to worry.....He provides.....

They will have no fear of bad news;
their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the LORD.
(Psalm 112:7)

I can often fear the worst....even before it happens, IF it happens.  When I behave this way, I'm not trusting the Lord for my protection, courage, and accepting His will for me.  Going it alone simply doesn't work.

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise— in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? (Psalms 56:3-4)

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10)