A Note from Keirstin:
As a parent, I wish that I could take away every burden, every trial, every scary thing, and all the hard things my children will encounter in life. But, I can’t. The next best thing, is showing my children how to lay their burdens at the feet of Jesus, how to handle scary situations, and how to find joy in the midst of trials.
As Halloween approaches, it is a natural time to have intentional conversations at home about to do when things feel scary.
It would be easy to tell our children “don’t be scared,” when there is a thunderstorm, a big test coming up, they’re laying in their dark room, they have to have a difficult conversation, etc. That doesn’t give them any tools for when they are afraid, though. Instead, we can equip them by saying “when you’re afraid, remember what you know about God.”
This is why consistency in church matters. This is why regularly reading the Bible at home matters. This is why listening to worship music matters. This is why praying together matters.
We do not know what our children will face this week.
But, we can prepare them for it.
One tool you could teach your children when they are afraid:
1. Stop: Recognize that fear is creeping in and stop!
2. Breathe: Take a slow, deep breath… or two.
3. Pray: Call on God in the moment. It can be as simple as, “God, help me.” You can name the fear and ask God to intervene.
4. Remember: Recall the truths of God. He is with you. He is good. He is your protector.
5. Respond: What will you do now?
Let’s make Sunday morning a Saturday night decision together.
Weekly Challenge
As always, do not miss the opportunity to prepare well for worship today. Set the clothes out, make sure everyone can find both pairs of shoes and that their Bible bags are prepared. Then, get together as a family for a time of reading the Word and praying. Consider asking your children, “What are you nervous about this week?” Create a family phrase such as, “When I am afraid, I can trust God.” Let this be your anthem in the small and big scary moments of life.
Family Conversation Starter
What did we learn about God today that can help us when we are afraid?
One simple question can lead to deeper conversation.
Scripture for the Week
When I am afraid, I will trust in you.
Psalm 56:3
Memorizing this verse would be a great anchor for your children in scary moments.
A Prayer for Your Family
Lord, You are our strong tower. This week remains unknown to us, but is seen by You. Strengthen us with Your Word, make us immovable to the scary things of this world. Give us the courage to face our fears and know that You are our source of strength. As a parent, give us the words to root our children in Your Word through the trials of the week. Let us not miss a moment to point them to You. Amen.
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