Courage

God is my flashlight

Drama / Role play

Teach kids the “fear stopper handshake” to help them overcome fear of the dark.

Discussion point: Review some “fear stopper” Bible verses.

A very common fear among children and adults is fear of the dark. Being careful in the dark is wise, as a person can trip or bump into hidden obstacles. However, being cautious in the dark is different from being fearful of darkness. When a person is afraid of the dark, they are usually letting their imagination get carried away. If a person continues to dwell on those thoughts, the fear only gets worse.

Offering an alternative focus can help your children overcome their fear of the dark. One helpful alternative is the three-part “fear stopper” handshake.

  • Begin by having your child hold your hand as you would hold hands if you were walking side by side.
  • As you swing hands, have your child say, “God is with me.”
  • Then face each other and hold your hands up to your eyes, pretending your hands are binoculars you are looking through. Look at each other and say, “God knows what hides in darkness!”
  • Finish by saying “God will protect me!” as you make a fist with one hand and gently “pound it” by punching your fist against the other person’s fist, “hammer-style.”

Complete this activity by reviewing these “fear stoppers” found in the Bible:

Relevant Scripture

Deuteronomy 31:8 “The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

Daniel 2:22 “He reveals deep and hidden things; He knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with Him.”

2 Samuel 22:29 “You are my lamp O Lord; the Lord turns my darkness into light.”

Psalm 121:7-8 “The Lord will keep you from all harm – He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”