Talking About God When We’re Scared
Bible Readings
Take a few minutes to read the Bible verses listed and ask the Holy Spirit to lead you in how this verse applies to you this week.
Exodus 3:1-12, Philippians 4:13
Memory Verse
“But even when I am afraid, I keep on trusting you.” (CEV)
Emma sat down beside Sophia on the bus. As they drove through the city streets, the two girls chatted about their classes, the fun they had at recess, and what they were going to do over the weekend.
“We might go to the pool after church,” said Emma.
“Emma,” said Sophia. “You talk about church and Jesus a lot. Why do you like him so much?”
Emma panicked. What if she said the wrong thing? What if Sophia no longer wanted to be her friend if she told her the answer? What if Sophia thought she was silly? Her stomach filled with butterflies, and she thought she might throw up.
It’s not always easy to tell people about God. Look at Moses. God came to him in a burning bush and asked him to go tell the Egyptians and Israelites about him. Moses said, “No.”
He told God that he didn’t know what to say about him (Exodus 3:13). And, even if he did, the people wouldn’t listen to him (Exodus 3:11) or believe him (Exodus 4:1) anyway, because he wasn’t a good speaker (Exodus 4:10).
Like Emma, Moses was afraid to tell people about God. And so, he asked God to send someone else (Exodus 4:13). He almost let his fears stop him from being part of something amazing.
It can be scary to step out of your comfort zone and tell someone about God. But don’t let your fear hold you back. God will be with you just like he was with Moses (Exodus 3:12). And he has promised you that you can do all things with his help (Philippians 4:13).
Prayer
Dear Jesus, sometimes I am scared. Sometimes I don’t want to talk about you. Please give me the strength I need and the right words to say so I can be ready to speak when you need me to speak. Amen.Related Resources
Christina Van Starkenburg
Christina Van Starkenburg is an award-winning freelance writer and author of The Key Thief and One Tiny Turtle: A Story You Can Colour. In her free time, she enjoys reading, dancing, and exploring the world with her husband and three kids. Visit her at www.christinavanstarkenburg.com to read more.