The Lord Is My Helper”: Living with Courage from Hebrews 13:6

“So we can confidently say, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?’” — Hebrews 13:6 (ESV)

Hebrews 13:6 is a compact declaration of faith that meets us right where life often presses hardest—at the intersection of fear and trust. In a world that can feel unpredictable, this verse anchors the believer’s confidence not in circumstances, but in God’s steadfast presence.

Confidence That Speaks

The verse begins, “So we can confidently say…” Confidence here is not bravado or denial of difficulty. It is the settled assurance that flows from knowing who God is. The author of Hebrews has just reminded readers that God promises, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Confidence grows from promise. When God speaks faithfulness, His people learn to speak courage.

The Lord as Helper

Calling the Lord “my helper” is deeply personal. It doesn’t mean God assists only when we’ve exhausted ourselves; it means He is actively involved, present, and willing. Scripture consistently portrays God as One who comes alongside His people—strengthening the weak, guiding the uncertain, and sustaining the weary. Help from God is not distant or reluctant; it is near and intentional.

Fear Put in Perspective

“I will not fear.” This is not a claim that fear never knocks, but a decision about whom we will trust when it does. Fear often magnifies human power and minimizes God’s. Hebrews 13:6 reverses that distortion. By asking, “What can man do to me?” the verse places human threats in the light of God’s sovereignty. People can influence circumstances, but they cannot overrule God’s purposes.

Courage for Daily Faithfulness

This verse invites believers to live boldly—not recklessly, but faithfully. Courage here looks like obedience when it’s uncomfortable, generosity when resources feel tight, and integrity when compromise seems easier. Knowing the Lord is our helper frees us to love well and stand firm, even when outcomes are uncertain.

A Word for Today

Hebrews 13:6 is a reminder that faith is not merely internal comfort; it is a spoken, lived confidence. When we confess God’s help, fear loosens its grip. When we remember who stands with us, we find strength to face whatever lies ahead.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for being our faithful Helper. When fear rises and uncertainty surrounds us, remind us that You are near and that Your promises never fail. Teach us to place our confidence in You rather than in our own strength or in the approval of others. Help us to live courageously, trusting that nothing we face is greater than Your power or Your love. May our lives reflect the truth that You are with us always. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Sources

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version (ESV), Hebrews 13:5–6. Crossway Bibles, ESV Study Bible (for theological context on Hebrews).

In Truth and Mercy,

Merry Christmas,

T