Are you dealing with stress? Are you nervous? Afraid? Do you get nervous when you speak in public? Are you afraid of certain situations and what might happen?

Almost everyone gets nervous when they speak in public. It’s one of the greatest fears in life.You may remember that people often say speaking in public is a fear greater than death.Humorously speaking this means that the person who has to give the eulogy at a memorial service would rather be in the casket!

Is there a way to get beyond being nervous and afraid of the situations in life?

A friend reminded me of a question posed to Drew Brees, quarterback for the New Orleans Saints. He was asked if he gets nervous before a game.

His reply went something like this: everyone gets somewhat nervous before a game, but if I am well prepared I really don’t get nervous. If I am not prepared, I get very nervous.

I completely agree with Drew Brees.

Preaching a message is not difficult if you’ve put in the hours of preparation in advance. If I have studied, prayed, thought through the phrases I would use, and generally given my best in preparation, I’m really not nervous.

When I start my day with God in Scripture and prayer, I feel that I am prepared for the day.

It would be the same way with a test. If you have given your all in preparation, there’s no need to be nervous.

I believe this simple formula can make our lives better.

Are you praying, studying, preparing, and giving your best for whatever life brings before you? If so, don’t be afraid and don’t be nervous.

Jesus told His disciples that our heavenly Father cares for the birds of the air and the lilies of the field. If He cares for the birds of the air and the lilies of the field, how much more does He care for you and me (Matthew 6:25-34).

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