God, I Feel ScaredSample

Scared

Scared comes in all shapes and sizes—not only for our littles, but for ourselves as well. It can show up as a worry when you’re wondering what might happen next. It can sneak up on you when it’s time to try something new. Or it can come crashing in with a loss, a diagnosis, or when you just have no idea where to turn or what to do.

And while scared is not the most pleasant emotion to feel, it is actually one of God’s gifts to us. It’s His way of warning us that danger might be near, or that a person or situation might be unsafe. Think of it as a sort of check engine light, warning us to check “under the hood” of our mind and heart. So when we feel afraid, it’s not something to ignore. Instead, it’s something to consider, to address, and most of all, to take to God.

Because He understands.

Now, maybe you’re thinking, How could God understand my fears? He’s almighty and all powerful. He’s never been afraid.

Ah, but remember who God became . . . Jesus (Philippians 2:6–8). Jesus who faced demons and the devil himself. Jesus who faced His own coming torment in the Garden of Gethsemane. And Jesus who faced the cross. He knew fear, and so He understands ours (Hebrews 4:14–16).

But Jesus does more than understand. Because He came—because He knew and faced fear—the Spirit of God now comes to live inside each of us who choose to follow Him. He comforts, strengthens, and guides us through the fears and brings us ever closer to the One who is bigger than any fear we will ever face.

For Little Ones:

Do you ever get scared? (Allow littles ones to answer. Encourage them to share something that is scary to them.)

It’s okay to be scared sometimes. It happens to everyone. It’s what we do with our scared that matters most. Of course, you can always talk to me about the things that frighten you, and together we’ll figure out what to do. One of the best things we can do—together, or you can do it on your own—is talk to God about what scares you. He’s always ready to listen and to help. And because He loves you and knows you inside and out, He’ll know the very best way to help you be brave!

In moments of worry or fear:

• When your child is feeling scared, avoid saying things like, “That’s nothing to be afraid of” or “That’s silly!” Let them know it’s okay to feel what they’re feeling.
• Remember, children may be afraid of things that don’t make sense to us as adults. Encourage them to tell you more about it. Be gentle with what they’re feeling even if you don’t fully understand it.
• When your child comes to you with a worry or fear, stop what you’re doing and offer a hug as you get down on their level. Help them name their feeling, and invite them to tell you about it. Ask where they feel the fear in their bodies and reassure them that you’ll face this fear together.
• If it feels appropriate, normalize their fear by sharing a time you were afraid and how God helped you overcome your fears.