In Part 2 of our conversation with Rick Witmer, we focus on applying biblical truth through the “anchors” in his book Walking with God When I’m Afraid. Rick shares how seasons of anxiety in his own life shaped the anchor metaphor and explains how steady meditation on Scripture helps children (and adults!) find stability in life’s storms.

This episode explores how to patiently shepherd anxious hearts with gospel-centered truth, why quick fixes don’t work, and how long-term confidence in God is formed through slow, faithful exposure to Scripture.

This episode unpacks:

1. Grounding fearful hearts in God’s unchanging character
2. Helping children slowly “metabolize” truth through steady Scripture meditation
3. Responding to anxious children with patience instead of urgency
4. Holding grief and worship together in seasons of disappointment
5. Cultivating a reflex of turning to God first in moments of fear
6. Pursuing long-term spiritual formation rather than immediate emotional relief

Recommended Resources:

Walking with God When I'm Afraid by Rick Witmer

Other helpful parenting resources:

Shepherding a Child's Heart

Instructing a Child's Heart