The Kid: An Advent Devotional for Middle SchoolersSample

Do you ever feel like fear is holding you back? You might want to try something new but feel frozen in place. Maybe you want to invite someone new to sit with you at lunch but fear rejection. Or you'd like to try out for a play or team but are scared of messing up. Perhaps you’ve thought about serving in a new ministry at church but worry you won’t be good at it. Remember, this kind of fear isn’t from God. God gives us the power to face our fears, love to reach out to others, and self-discipline to do what's right. The Kid who came at Christmas brings us the courage to face any fear that comes our way.

Today, write this verse on a sticky note, make it lock screen on your phone, or put it on your mirror. Each time you see it, say it aloud as a prayer of sorts, asking God to remind you of the power, love, and self-discipline God’s Spirit provides you.