Afraid

TODAY’S SPECIAL: Exodus 23:20-33

TO CHEW ON: " Worship the Lord your God, and his blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away sickness from among you, and none will miscarry or be barren in your land. I will give you a full life span." Exodus 23:25,26

What things scare you:
- Walking alone in the dark?
- Changing schools?
- Trying something for the first time (diving, horseback riding, snowboarding)?
- _____________________________

It’s easy to be frightened when we don’t feel safe, or when we don’t know anyone, or when we’re trying something for the first time, or a lot of other reasons.

The Israelites had every reason to be afraid. They had gone from living in one spot to moving nearly every day. They went from being safe in Egypt to being easy prey to fierce desert tribes. They went from always knowing where they would find their next drink and meal to having to trust God for all these things.

A. God saw the fear inside them. He answered it with a whole lot of promises. Cross out the one thing, below, that He didn’t promise in TODAY'S SPECIAL reading.
God said he would:
1. send His angel to show them the way to go.
2. bless their food and water so they wouldn’t get sick.
3. give them a full life span.
4. make their enemies afraid of them.
5. give them a home in a new land.
6. drive enemies out in one day.

"The Giving of Manna" - Artist unknown

B. But in order for God to keep this promise, the Israelites needed to do something. What was it? (Exodus 23:24, 25)

God can take care of us just like He did the Israelites. But we also need to worship Him. That means respect Him, pray to Him, trust Him, and live the way He tells us to.

PRAYER: Dear God, thank You that You care for me in every situation. Amen.


MORE: When Fear is at the Door
Next time fear thoughts come to call, answer them with these words:

"When I am afraid I will trust in you. " (Psalm 56:3)

Remind yourself of these words often by memorizing them, writing them on a poster, banner or note to yourself. Put it up on the bulletin board, mirror or other place in your room where you’re sure to see it often.

Answers

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Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations are taken from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.