Stage Fright

Bible Reading: EXODUS 4:10-12

Simone sighed when she heard her English assignment. “You’re all going to give a short speech next week,” said Miss Hollis. “Pick any topic that interests you and be prepared to talk about it for two minutes.”

After class Simone approached her teacher. “Please don’t make me give a speech, Miss Hollis. I just can’t talk in front of people!”

Her teacher smiled kindly. “Stage fright is natural, Simone. I’m sure you’ll do fine.”

Simone shook her head. “I’ll mess up! I know I will, and the other kids will laugh at me!”

“Don’t worry so much about what others will think, Simone,” Miss Hollis replied. “Shift your focus away from yourself and concentrate on helping your audience learn something new.” Simone still looked doubtful. “And practice!” added Miss Hollis. “Practice in front of a mirror, and give your speech to your family. That will help you.”

When Simone got home, she shared her fears with her mother. “You know what?” said Mom. “In a way, I suffer from stage fright too. Sometimes I feel Jesus wants me to speak about Him to someone, but I get nervous and wonder what to say and what the person will think of me. You’ve helped me realize that instead of focusing on myself, I need to follow God’s leading and help that person know more about who He is.” She smiled at Simone. “Let’s pray for each other. God will help us both.”

When Simone’s turn came to speak, she swallowed hard and walked up to the front. “My topic,” she began in a shaky voice, “is stage fright. I really feel like an expert on this subject.” The kids laughed—they liked her humor—and Simone began to feel better. She talked about the causes of stage fright and about some famous people who dealt with it.

“That wasn’t so bad after all,” Simone told her mom that evening. “I know God helped me, and I’m thankful for that.”

“He helped with my stage fright too. I was able to talk to Mrs. Beck about Jesus today,” Mom said, giving Simone a hug. “I’m so glad God is always with us and will help us speak in scary situations.” SHERRY L. KUYT

How About You?

Are you nervous when you have to talk in front of a group? Talk to God about it. He cares and will help you with any struggles you have. Are you also nervous when you have an opportunity to tell one of your friends about Jesus? He’ll help you with that too. Long ago, He promised to show Moses what to say. Trust Him to help you find the right words when He wants you to speak. Then leave the results to Him.

Today’s Key Verse:
EXODUS 4:12 NOW GO! I WILL HELP YOU SPEAK AND I WILL TEACH YOU WHAT TO SAY. (CSB)

Today’s Key Thought:

Jesus will help you speak about Him