PANIC ATTACK

"In the LORD I take refuge. How then can you say to me: "Flee like a bird to your mountain." — Psalm 11:1

When the very foundations of your world are shaken — whether it's from a broken relationship, a home destroyed by an unexpected disaster, the devastating news of an illness, the loss of a loved one — how do you respond? Is it an overwhelming desire to run and hide from reality? Is it a panic attack? Or do you weather the circumstance — trusting that God is in control?

In Psalm 11, David was facing his own crisis. Perhaps this was written when he was being hunted down by King Saul or under attack from his son Absalom. In any case, it appears that those around David are advising him to run and hide from those persecuting him. And David's answer? "In the LORD I take refuge. How then can you say to me: 'Flee like a bird to your mountain'" (v.1).

In fact, David did flee from his enemies for his own safety, but not in panic, not in fear. He never lost sight of Who was in control of his life. He never forgot Who was in charge of all his circumstances. And it was this faith in God that kept David from losing hope and succumbing to the fear and panic that seemed to have engulfed his advisors. While they could only see the alarming circumstances surrounding them, David instead focused on the God who was "My shield" (Psalm 7:10) and "my rock and my fortress" (Psalm 31:3).

David was not immune from life's troubles and difficulties. Neither are we. But we can learn from David's life and be encouraged by his example. Rather than hit the panic button, we need to remember the God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and David. That despite what is happening in your life right now, God remains in control. His power is not diminished by what is going on.

When life's circumstances are causing you to run and hide, run instead to God. Remember, as David did, that "The LORD is in his holy temple; the LORD is on his heavenly throne" (11:4). He will preserve and protect you.

With prayers for shalom, peace,

Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein