Gary Zimak gives advice on how to calm the everyday fears of young children by praying and sharing the words of Jesus with them every day.
Transcript:
Host: Let’s go to Carissa in St. Paul, Minnesota. Carissa, you are on with Gary Zimak, what’s your question?
Caller: Hi, I actually wanted to ask Gary what his thoughts were with children with worry and how to try to combat that. My five-year-old seems to have kind of the similar adult thoughts that you’re having; like she consistently thinks that mom’s gonna die when she leaves. It’s very morbid thoughts and I–and no matter what I do in trying to talk to her about Jesus, and Jesus will take care of me whether it’s here or in Heaven, she’s just not taking that information in, I guess. So just what your thoughts are on trying to explain that to her?
Gary: I can very much relate to that because I had those same thoughts about my parents dying when I was young and they were healthy. But, you know, for some reason I thought they were going to die and I struggled with that. What I would say–and having my own children who have had these same issues–I think the one thing to remember is to try to be patient and just keep reassuring them. “Jesus loves you. Your Heavenly Father loves you.” You know, “And He will only wants what’s best for you.” And to try to just maybe reiterate some of the words of Jesus about “Do not be anxious about tomorrow.”
And just over time, that, you know, the Lord’s word will bear fruit, but it’s–it really is a process, it’s a constant process. And even as an adult I still, every day, have to remind myself of these facts. But it’s a challenge, but something you want to keep continually reminding your child of–and also let your child know that YOU trust the Lord, and that you’re praying, and if they’re worried, saying, “Let’s pray together.” Sometimes I’ll do that with my kids, “Let’s say a quick prayer.” And that seems to work. Hope that helps.
Caller:That’s–yeah, that’s great, thank you.
Gary: Sure.
Host: Thank you, Carissa.