Have No Fear!

Bible Reading: Psalm 23

Editor’s note: This story’s subject matter may not be appropriate for young children.

Hazel anxiously glanced around her bedroom. The night was clear and quiet, and the glowing moonlight shone through her window. Yet something still bothered her.

Her school had recently had a code red lockdown, which meant someone dangerous had gotten in. She and the rest of Mrs. Thompson’s class had hidden in cupboards and behind desks, turned on their sides. What had only lasted eight minutes felt like an eternity. Finally the police arrived and took the person away.

Hazel was now very worried that someone bad would come back into her school and try to hurt people again. Or even worse, try to come into her own house! She heard a strange sound and dove underneath the covers.

Hazel sniffed and then started to cry. She wished she still shared a room with her older sister, Amber. Then she heard her door creak open. Hazel froze.

“Hazel?” A familiar, soothing voice filled Hazel’s ears. “Honey, are you okay?”

“Mom?” Hazel threw back the covers and looked into the loving eyes of her mother. She tried to stop the tears and assure Mom she was okay, but she couldn’t.

“What’s wrong, Hazel?” Mom asked. “Is this about the lockdown?” Hazel hiccupped and said yes.

Mom thought for a moment. “Do you remember when Isaac was born?” Hazel nodded, remembering when her baby brother had been born with a serious heart defect. It was scary, and Hazel had been afraid he might die. But Isaac had gotten the heart transplant he needed and was now a happy baby.

“I remember how scary it was,” Hazel replied, clutching her stuffed flamingo, Pinky.

Mom smiled and stroked Hazel’s chestnut-colored hair. “But God took care of us and comforted us, even though we didn’t know what was going to happen with Isaac, didn’t He?” Hazel nodded. “Jesus saved us, and He promises to always be with us, even when we experience things that are scary or hard,” said Mom. “You don’t have to be afraid.” She picked up Hazel’s Bible. “Let’s read Psalm 23. It’s about how Jesus takes care of us, and I think it will help you sleep.” After they read it together, Hazel snuggled under the covers and soon fell asleep. – Taylor F. Carey

How About You?

Has something happened in your life that’s made you afraid? Sometimes the world is a scary place. But if you trust Jesus as your Savior, you don’t have to be afraid—He will always be with you and take care of you. He doesn’t want you to be afraid, even when bad things happen. Instead, trust Him to take care of you in every situation and give you peace.

Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 23:4 Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me. (NKJV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Jesus is always with you