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Read: Philippians 4:4-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
Peace in the Midst of Stress
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
He was so nervous! Daniel and his family had just moved to a new town. He didn’t know what his new classmates or teacher would be like. As he walked from the car where his mom dropped him off, he felt like everyone was staring at him. His heart was beating fast as he walked up to his new teacher.
But when she turned around and saw him, she smiled and gave him a high five. Daniel’s nervousness started to disappear. His classmates were nice too! By the end of the school day, he even made a few new friends. He couldn’t wait to go back the next day!
Change can be hard. Maybe you’ve had a big change like Daniel. How did it make you feel? Were you scared or nervous? That’s normal! During this season before Christmas, called Advent, God wants to give us a really good change. He wants to turn our stress and fear into joy and happiness!
How does he do that? The apostle Paul wrote to his Christian friends in a town called Philippi: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, present your requests to God.”
That means when we feel scared, worried, or stressed—about school, friends, tests, or anything else—we can pray! And God is always listening. Paul also says, “the Lord is near.” He is watching over us and caring for us.
We know this is true because about 2,000 years ago, Jesus was born. He became human to be near us. He came to save us! Whenever we mess up, make mistakes, or hurt others with our words or actions, Jesus died and rose again to bring us close to God. That’s how Jesus gives us peace.
So, the next time you feel scared or nervous, remember Jesus. Talk to him in prayer, and rejoice that he loves you, listens to you, and will help you.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, sometimes we feel scared or nervous about what’s happening in our lives. Thank you for being with us every day. Help us remember that you love us and listen to our prayers. Turn our worry into confidence and give us your peace. Amen.
The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.
Questions for Younger Children

What are some things that make you feel scared?
How does Jesus help you feel better when you are scared or nervous?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Make a list of a few things that make you nervous or worried.
How can taking those things to Jesus in prayer help you?

Questions for Middle School and Above

What is stressing you out right now?
In what ways does Jesus give you peace? (Hint: praying, trusting him, feeling loved, remembering he’s always near.)

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All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

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