Hebrews 13:6 – “So we say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?’”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse is a declaration of courage, trust, and hope. It begins with a bold statement: “So we say with confidence.” That means we’re not just hoping things will be okay—we’re speaking with a settled, steady belief. And what are we saying? “The Lord is my helper.” That’s personal. Not a helper, but my helper. It’s a deep trust that God Himself is with us, willing to help us in whatever we face.
Because of that truth, the writer continues: “I will not be afraid.” Fear is a normal human emotion, but this verse tells us we don’t have to live under its grip. Why? Because the living God is with us, helping us.
Then comes the final line: “What can mere mortals do to me?” In other words, if God is on our side, what can people possibly do that would overpower His protection, purpose, and love? The answer is—nothing.
Historical Context
The believers who received this letter were going through tough times. Some were being persecuted. Others had lost their homes or possessions because of their faith. The temptation to give in to fear, to blend in, or to walk away from Jesus must have been strong.
So the writer of Hebrews pulls from an old truth, quoting Psalm 118:6. That psalm was written during a time of distress but still declared trust in God. By using that quote here, the author reminds these Christians that even in the face of danger, they are not alone—and they have nothing ultimate to fear.
This was not just about comfort—it was about courage. The early church needed a reminder that even when the world presses in, God’s help is constant.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches us something foundational: the presence of God drives out fear. When we truly believe that the Lord is our helper, it changes how we view challenges, threats, and even opposition.
It also reminds us that human threats—mere mortals—are limited. People can cause pain, yes. But they cannot remove God’s love, stop His plans, or take away our eternal hope.
This verse also affirms that God is not distant or indifferent. He helps. He comes close. He strengthens His people in real and practical ways.
Literary Analysis
This verse is a direct quote from Psalm 118:6, brought into the flow of practical encouragement in Hebrews 13. The wording builds in strength: from confidence, to declaring who God is, to facing fear, and finally dismissing the power of human threats.
The phrase “so we say with confidence” links it to the previous verse (Hebrews 13:5), where God promises never to leave or forsake His people. That promise gives us the foundation to speak boldly and trust fully.
It’s also written in the first person—“I will not be afraid”—which makes it something personal and repeatable. This is a truth every believer can claim and say out loud in their own moments of fear or struggle.
Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 118:6 – “The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”
- Romans 8:31 – “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
- Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will strengthen you and help you.”
- Matthew 10:28 – “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.”
- 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”
These verses all underline the same truth: God’s presence cancels fear and gives us courage, no matter what people may do.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For us today, Hebrews 13:6 is both a comfort and a challenge. We face a world full of uncertainty—job loss, sickness, rejection, injustice, or pressure to compromise our faith. But this verse gives us a steady anchor: The Lord is our helper.
We don’t have to be paralyzed by fear. That doesn’t mean we won’t feel afraid sometimes. But it means fear doesn’t get the final say. God does.
This verse invites us to live with boldness—to speak truth, love others, and stand firm in our faith—even when it’s unpopular or costly. Because in the end, the opinions or threats of people are small compared to the presence and power of God.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Only a loving God would call Himself our helper. He doesn’t stand far off, waiting for us to figure life out. He steps in. He supports. He strengthens.
His love is what gives us the confidence to say, “I will not be afraid.” His love assures us that no matter what others might do or say, we are safe in Him.
And because His love is constant, so is His help. It doesn’t run out. It doesn’t depend on how strong we feel. It’s steady because He is steady.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of this promise. He is the proof that God comes close to help us. When Jesus walked this earth, He constantly helped the weak, the hurting, and the afraid. He healed, taught, comforted, and forgave.
And at the cross, Jesus faced the worst that people could do—betrayal, rejection, and death. But even that could not stop God’s plan. He rose again, and now offers His presence to every believer through the Holy Spirit.
In Matthew 28:20, Jesus says, “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” That’s His personal commitment to be our helper forever. So when we say, “The Lord is my helper,” we’re really saying, “Jesus is with me—and I don’t have to be afraid.”
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What situations in your life have been ruled by fear lately?
- How does knowing that the Lord is your helper change the way you face challenges?
- Are you more focused on what people might do, or on what God has promised?
- How can you remind yourself daily of God’s presence and help?
- What would it look like for you to “say with confidence” the words of this verse in your own life?