When Your Child Has Nightmares


When your child has a nightmare, the most important response is to offer comfort and reassurance, reminding them that God is always with them, even in the darkest of nights you can do this by calmly talking to them, holding them close, and praying together, often referencing Bible verses like Psalm 91 which speaks about God's protection throughout the night. 

Key points to remember:
  • Acknowledge their fear: Let your child know you understand they are scared and that their nightmare is not real. 
  • Offer physical comfort: Cuddle them, hold their hand, or sit by their bedside until they feel safe. 
  • Pray together: Pray a simple prayer asking God to keep them safe and bring them peace. 
  • Share Bible verses: Read comforting verses from the Bible, like Psalm 91:5-6, which talks about God's protection during the night. 
  • Talk about God's presence: Remind them that God is always with them, even in their dreams. 
What to say:
  • "You had a bad dream, but you are safe now, and God is watching over you." 
  • "Let's pray together, and ask God to fill your heart with peace." 
  • "Remember that even when it's dark, God is always with you." 
  • "Do you want to read a Bible verse about how God protects us?" 

FAQ
I feel a bad spiritual presence in our house
The Bible speaks of only two spiritual presence that can be beyond man's detection: God's presence and the enemy, the devil.   
  • God's presence is all over the place.  I will be with you even unto the ends of the earth (Matt. 28:20).
  • God's presence is powerful than the devil.  Greater is he that is in you, than he is that is in the world (1 John 4:4). 
  • The devil comes to disrupt and destroy.  "Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."  1 Pet. 5:8)
If you feel a bad spiritual presence in your house... 
  • First, acknowledge the presence of God by praying, "God you are greater than any and I'd like to know your presence more than anyone else."
  • Open the Bible and understand these promises meant for you:  
    • God's presence is more dominant than anyone else.  Rom. 8:35-39, 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long;  we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” 37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[b] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
    • You have to claim and be strong in God's promise.  Joshua 1:9, Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
  •   Affirm God's presence and Receive Christ as Savior and Lord.   This is the most important step.  In Psalm 23, the psalmist wrote, "The Lord is MY Shepherd I have everything I need."  You need to be owned by God and you need to own God by repenting of your sins and opening up your heart to receive Him as Savior and Lord.   If you are ready, let's pray this prayer: Lord Jesus, Forgive me of my sins.  I have held on traditions and speculations and now, I am holding on to you.  I do not need to be afraid because you are with me.   Please take away these nightmares and allow me to rest in your hope and confidence.  In Jesus Name. 
What is a best preparation to combat children who have nightmares?
  • Before going to bed, share a bible story (like David and Goliath, or the birth of Jesus and the visit of the Magis)
  • Pray with your child before sleeping
  • Avoid movies (even cartoons) that does not build confidence in Christ
  • Have a positive conversation before going to bed


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