Overcoming Fear: Not Knowing What to Say

The number one reason we, as Christians, avoid sharing our faith is fear. When asked the number one fear that hinders them from witnessing, time and time again Equipping to Share participants replied, "not knowing the right thing to say."

The first step to overcoming a fear is to address it. If not having the right thing to say is one of the fears serving as an obstacle to your personal faith sharing, consider the below two points as you begin to address and conquer it.

· Try to recall the time in your life when you were unable to multiply. I'm sure the very thought of being asked to do so terrified you. However, after studying and learning your timetables, you became comfortable spouting the answer to "What's 5 times 5?" without blinking an eye. In fact, at this point, you likely can't remember such a time when adding was your only mathematical capability.

Practice is the key to being prepared. The same rings true with confidently sharing the Gospel. Christians are directed to "always be prepared to give an account for the hope that is within you" (1 Peter 3:15b). Therefore, by having your story prepared and practiced, you will know what to say at any point in the event a mission moment occurs. After awhile, you will be so comfortable and confident in sharing your faith that you will likely forget the time you weren't.

· Does this mean you will become so prepared you will never be stumped again? No. You will likely encounter a time when someone asks you a question to which you do not have an answer. Do not feel inferior for not knowing. This is not a bad thing. In fact, this may create an opportunity to later connect with that person because you now have a reason to do so. Ultimately, it may establish a healthy camaraderie in that you are now learning together as a team.

Simply respond this way: "That's a good question. I don't know the answer, but I am certainly interested in learning that as well. Can I do a little research and get back to you?" Then, pick up the conversation where you left off before that point. Be sure not to forget to find an answer to the person's question and get back to them later.

Next time you feel hindered from sharing your faith out of fear that you will become tongue-tied, consider the two above points; but, most of all, realize that the best help you can receive is at the cross. Ask God for His help in conquering this fear. He has help waiting.

In His Word, God tells us, "make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict" (Luke 21:14-15). Through full reliance on Him and preparation, we can overcome this fear and share our faith actively with boldness.


Provided by Sarah Guldalian, Editor
Coordinator, Equipping to Share


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Stuff They Didn't Teach Me In Sunday School

Brand new this September, "Stuff They Didn't Teach Me In Sunday School" is a series of weekly video vignettes briefly exploring some of the seldom-heard back-story behind the popular Bible stories we learned as kids. Featured on the Men's NetWork Web site, www.lhmmen.com, these entertaining and informational nuggets are hosted by Bruce Wurdeman, executive director of Lutheran Hour Ministries.

In segments each less than ten minutes long, Wurdeman's weekly fireside chat takes the viewer behind the scenes of Old and New Testament stories. He'll show how understanding a specific word from Scripture or appreciating a cultural nuance can give surprising depth and clarity to well-worn stories that have been heard dozens of times.

The first six video clips for "Stuff They Didn't Teach Me In Sunday School" are "Adam and Eve," "The Fall," "Noah's Vineyard," "God Chose Abraham," "God's Promises," and "God's Covenant." Accompanying each video clip is a downloadable discussion page featuring questions and additional commentary highlighting the Bible story.

Ever wondered if there was just a bit more to some of those lessons you learned in Sunday school? "Stuff They Didn't Teach Me In Sunday School" will give you the answers. Check it out-a brand-new feature of the Men's NetWork at www.lhmmen.com.


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Thought of the Day


"There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear." - 1 John 4:18a


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Tips for Sharing


Fear will force you to act in ways you are not called and keep you from moving forward in the direction you are called.

· Don't allow fear to drive you or hinder you when decision-making.

· Instead of operating out of fear, operate in faith. Allow reliance on God to order your steps. "For God did not give us a spirit of fear and timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline" (2 Timothy 1:7).

Overcome fear

· by the Holy Spirit's power. Read Acts 1:8.

· through prayer. Read Philippians 4:6.

· with the Word of God. Read Ephesians 6:17.

· through preparation. Read 1 Peter 3:15.

· with wisdom in communicating with others. Read James 1:19.


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Prayer


Dear Heavenly Father, We ask for Your hand of safety and protection over our children as they begin a new school year. Please make them ambassadors for You, who shine Your light in the lives of their peers. Place the right friends in their life. Give them teachers and mentors who help them recognize their unique God-given gifts. Develop them into Godly leaders and grant them wisdom and discernment in their decision-making. We lift them up to you, asking you to use them mightily. In Jesus Powerful Name we pray, Amen.


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Web Resources


Could you use some help formulating your personal witness story? For that and numerous other training materials geared towards strengthening your personal witness, visit the new Equipping to Share follow-up training Website at http://www.lhm.org/equipping/login.asp.


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Christmas Outreach Help with New LHM Resources


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