What does Psalm 56:3 mean?

David did not give up under his enemies' constant oppression. It's important to note that David never claims to be immune to fear. In some of his psalms, David said he was literally shaking in fear (Psalm 55:5). He resolved not to lose faith on account of anxiety (Psalm 3:6; 27:3), often speaking as if he is reminding himself of God's protection (Psalm 27:1; 56:4). Rather than falling apart due to fear, David resolved to rely on the Lord (Psalm 11:1). Fear can either drive a person away from God or to God. Because he was human, David experienced fear, but he took the right course of action. He allowed his fear to drive him to God. His fear did not vanish, but it did not overcome trusting reliance on the Lord.

The Hebrews feared the approaching Egyptian cavalry when they stood at the edge of the Red Sea with no possible escape route. However, Moses called upon the Hebrews to trust in the Lord, saying, "Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lᴏʀᴅ, which he will work for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall never see again. The Lᴏʀᴅ will fight for you, and you have only to be silent" (Exodus 14:13–14). Fear says, "Run," but faith says, "Stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord."