Do Not Fear

A Note from Keirstin:
October is full of things that are meant to scare us…spooky decorations, scary stories, haunted houses, and creepy costumes. I will never forget, one October I was on a run around 5:00am. The streets were dark, the only thing I had lighting my path was a little light on a vest I was wearing. Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed a skeleton hanging from a tree feet away from me. I screamed, lost my breath, and was on edge the rest of my run.

Our kids don't need us to teach them that nothing is scary. They need us to teach them what to do when they are scared.

This picture is from last summer. My daughter had talked about doing a zip line for months. I took her to a ropes course with a zip line. Suddenly, all the excitement was gone and she was terrified. After much coercion, she did it… and loved it!

How many times has that been true for you? Terrified to do something… gain the courage to do the scary thing… and love the thing you were scared of a moment ago.

Fear is a normal human response. The question is: Where do we turn when fear shows up?

How does this relate to preparing our hearts and homes for worship? I am so glad you asked!!

Sunday morning we are worshipping with all of our heart. We are believing every word we sing about the goodness of God. But, by Tuesday, we are facing something scary. The words we sang on Sunday are now a distant memory.

When we prepare for worship, we're helping our children come ready to remember who God is. Then, throughout the week, we help them practice what we sang, heard, prayed, and learned on Sunday.

What if the worship songs we sing on Sunday aren't just songs for Sunday? What if they are foundational truths we carry into the week to encourage us.

Let’s make Sunday morning a Saturday night decision together.

Weekly Challenge

This evening, after everyone has prepared for worship, gather together for a few moments to discuss where fear is lived out in our lives.

Ask your children: What is something you're worried about or afraid about right now? Then: Ask God to help you remember that He is with us when we worship tomorrow.

Family Conversation Starter

What did we learn about God today that can help us when we're afraid this week?

One simple question can lead to deeper conversation.

Scripture for the Week

Do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be afraid, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you; I will help you;
I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10

Fear is normal. Fear doesn't have to be our response.

A Prayer for Your Family

Lord, You are so loving and kind. Thank You for Your goodness, Your presence, and Your protection. In a month where society desires to create scary moments, help us to root our faith, trust, and confidence in You. Help us as parents to guide and direct our children toward trust and hope in You. When fear creeps in this week, allow us to anchor ourselves in Your character and Your Word. Amen.

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