Paul Wilbur - Why Should I Be Afraid Lyrics
Lyrics
The Lord is my light and my salvation why should I be afraid
Whoa whoa oh
The Lord is my strength and my strong tower why should I be afraid
Whoa whoa oh
He will hide me in His sanctuary in the day of war
And I will stand and see the victory for the battle is the Lord?€™s
Oh oh oh
The Lord is my help in times of trouble why should I be afraid
Whoa whoa oh
He will hide me in His sanctuary in the day of war
And I will stand and see the victory for the battle is the Lord?€™s
Oh oh oh
And high above my enemies I?€™ll stand and shout the victory
Oh oh oh
Oh oh oh
Video
Why Should I Be Afraid - Paul Wilbur - Desert Rain
Meaning & Inspiration
Paul Wilbur's "Why Should I Be Afraid," featured on his 2010 album *Desert Rain*, is a powerful declaration of unwavering trust in God amidst life's inevitable storms. This song isn't just a collection of words; it's a vibrant testament to the spiritual strength that comes from recognizing God's sovereign power and His personal protection. At its core, Wilbur articulates a profound truth found throughout Scripture: that our fear is ultimately overcome by our faith in a God who is our light, our salvation, and our refuge.
The lyrical foundation of "Why Should I Be Afraid" draws directly from the Psalms, particularly Psalm 27:1, which states, "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?" Wilbur echoes this sentiment by identifying God as both "light and salvation" and "strength and my strong tower." These are not abstract concepts but powerful metaphors for divine guidance, deliverance, and security. The imagery of a "strong tower" (Hebrew: *metsuda*) evokes an impregnable fortress, a place of ultimate safety that no enemy can breach. This protection is not conditional but assured, as evidenced by the promise, "He will hide me in His sanctuary in the day of war." This sanctuary is a sacred space, a divine dwelling where God's presence offers impenetrable defense.
The song directly confronts the anxieties and challenges that lead to fear. The phrase "in the day of war" signifies any period of conflict, struggle, or tribulation, whether internal or external. It speaks to the reality that life is not always peaceful, and we will face opposition. However, Wilbur reframes these battles, declaring, "And I will stand and see the victory for the battle is the Lord's." This crucial line is a direct nod to verses like Exodus 14:14, where Moses assures the Israelites, "The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace." It signifies a surrender of our own efforts and a recognition that ultimate victory belongs to God. He is the commander of all armies, and His victory is assured, meaning our participation is one of faithful endurance and confident anticipation.
Furthermore, the song emphasizes God's role as "my help in times of trouble." This resonates with Psalm 46:1, which proclaims, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." The word translated as "help" (Hebrew: *ezra*) implies active assistance, a divine partner stepping into our difficulties. It suggests that we are never alone when facing adversity. The repeated refrain, "Why should I be afraid?" is not a rhetorical question posed out of ignorance, but a profound realization born from an intimate knowledge of God's character and promises. It’s an invitation for the listener to internalize this truth and allow it to reshape their perspective on fear. The ascending shouts of victory towards the end signify the triumphant culmination of faith, a prophetic declaration of the peace and security that awaits those who place their complete trust in the Lord. The song ultimately serves as a spiritual anthem, encouraging believers to stand firm in their faith, knowing that with God as their shield and guide, fear has no lasting dominion.