Long ago, God spoke these words to a man named Joshua. Moses had died, and now Joshua had to lead all the people. That was a big, scary job. God did not tell Joshua that nothing scary would happen. God said, I will be with you wherever you go.
That is the best part. Being brave does not mean you never feel scared. It means you know you are not alone.
God is not only in church. God is with you in the dark room. God is with you when you hear a strange sound. God is with you on your first day in a new class.
Tonight, when you feel scared, whisper, "God is with me." Then take three slow breaths. God is already there, and God is not going anywhere.
😨When I'm Scared
God Is With You in the Dark
A creaky noise at night cannot make God leave your room.
October 11, 20262 min readNIV
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
— Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
Joshua assumes command
Today's Story
✍️Fictitious Story
Ananya lay in bed. The room was dark and quiet. Then a long creak came from the hallway.
Her chest felt tight. She sat up and looked at her tin pencil case on the table. Inside, the crayons sat in their careful colour order.
She wanted to call for her mother, but Dinesh was asleep in the next room. She did not want to wake him.
So she whispered, "God is with me."
She breathed in slowly. One. Two. Three.
The creak came again. Ananya breathed again, and her shoulders loosened. She lay back down and pulled the sheet up to her chin. Soon she was asleep.
Reflection
Think About It
• When do you feel scared the most — at night, or somewhere else? • What could you whisper to God when that feeling comes?
Prayer
God, I get scared sometimes. When the room is dark and I hear a sound, I don't know what to do. So I'm telling you now: I need you. You said you are with me wherever I go. I believe you. Stay close tonight. Amen.
Live It Out
When you feel scared tonight, whisper "God is with me" and take three slow breaths.