Authentically Adele

Two weeks ago, my children attended a busy party filled with excitement and adventure. Among the activities, they had the chance to interact with reptiles—corn snakes, a python, a tarantula, and lizards. As they eagerly approached these creatures, curiosity lighting up their faces, I stood back, heart pounding. You see, I am absolutely petrified of lizards. Just the thought of one near me makes my skin crawl!

Yet, as I watched my children hold, touch, and marvel at these animals with pure confidence, I realised something powerful—fear is often learned. If I had let my fears dictate their experience, they might have hesitated, stepped back, or even refused to participate. But because they approached it with an open mind, free from the anxieties that have shaped me, they were able to embrace the moment fully.

As parents, we have a responsibility not just to protect our children, but also to empower them. 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” Fear is not our inheritance in Christ, and it certainly isn’t something we should pass down like a family heirloom.

How often do we unknowingly limit our children because of our own fears? Maybe it’s fear of failure, fear of rejection, or fear of stepping outside our comfort zone. But God calls us to raise children who walk in faith, not fear.

Of course, teaching them courage does not mean ignoring safety. It is important that children learn to assess risks wisely. Before they interacted with the animals, trained professionals guided them on how to safely handle each one. They were taught to be gentle, to respect the creatures, and to follow the handler’s instructions. Teaching children to be bold should always be paired with teaching them to be responsible. Confidence and caution can work hand in hand.

Watching my children boldly handle creatures I wouldn’t dare to touch reminded me of the importance of letting them experience the world through their own eyes, not through the lens of my insecurities. Our job is to teach them wisdom and discernment, not timidity.

So today, I encourage you—don’t let your fears become theirs. Instead, lead them with faith, confidence, and the assurance that God is always with them. The next time fear creeps in, remember: you were never meant to pass it on.