I Will Trust and Not Be Afraid

“I Will Trust and Not Be Afraid” reflects the pastoral and experiential theology of John Newton, the former slave trader who became an Anglican minister and hymn writer. The title echoes Isaiah 12:2, “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation” (KJV). This verse captures the heart of the hymn: confidence in God rooted in His saving character.

Newton’s hymns often grew out of personal experience, and this theme of trust in the midst of fear appears repeatedly in his ministry. Having known spiritual darkness, danger at sea, and the burden of guilt prior to his conversion, Newton understood fear deeply. Yet his writing consistently points believers away from self-reliance and toward the sufficiency of Christ. Trust is not presented as a human achievement, but as the fruit of knowing God’s faithfulness.

Psalm 56:3-4 declares, “What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.” The hymn reflects this honest realism. Fear is acknowledged, not denied. The Christian life includes seasons of uncertainty, trial, and inward struggle. However, the remedy for fear is not self-confidence but confidence in God’s promises. Newton emphasizes that faith rests on the unchanging Word of God.

Hebrews 13:6 says, “The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.” This assurance likely informs the hymn’s tone. Whether facing persecution, hardship, or personal affliction, the believer’s courage arises from divine presence. Newton’s theology stresses the sovereignty of God, meaning that nothing enters the believer’s life apart from the Lord’s wise permission.

Second Timothy 1:7 reminds believers that “God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” The hymn aligns with this promise, encouraging steadfast reliance upon Christ rather than surrender to anxiety.

“I Will Trust and Not Be Afraid” is fitting for times of personal trial, congregational prayer, and seasons of uncertainty. Its message is simple yet profound: the believer’s safety is found not in favorable circumstances, but in the character and promises of God. Through faith in Christ, fear is displaced by quiet confidence, and the soul rests securely in divine salvation.