Gentle Journey—for nights when the dark feels big.

When I Feel Scared

A short read-aloud for little hearts when the dark feels big or the day feels hard.

Read-aloud

Sometimes the dark feels big. Sometimes a loud noise or a hard day makes your heart beat fast. It’s okay to feel scared. Jesus knows what it feels like to be in a storm.

One night Jesus’ friends were in a boat on the sea. The wind blew hard and the waves crashed over the boat. They were very afraid. Jesus was sleeping, but when they woke Him, He stood up and spoke to the wind and the sea:

And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. Mark 4:39 (KJV)
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you: let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27 (KJV)

Jesus is stronger than any storm. He is right here with you, even when you cannot see Him. You can tell Him, “Jesus, I feel scared. Please be near me.”

One small gentle step together

  1. Take a slow breath.
  2. Say the verse (or just “Jesus, be near me”).
  3. Ask Mommy or Daddy for a hug if you need one.

A simple prayer

Dear Jesus, thank You that You are stronger than anything that scares me. Please hold my hand and give me Your peace. Amen.