When I was a kid, I used to be terrified of talking to new people. I would hide behind my mom, burying my face in her sweater, because I didn’t have the confidence to talk to a new person on my own.

Now, I’m too old (and too tall!) to hide behind my mom. But sometimes I wish that I still could. There are moments when I am in a meeting at work, and I don’t have the courage to speak up. When I’m at a party with no friend in sight, I often want to strike up a conversation with a stranger. But I’m scared.

Over the years, as I have encountered many situations where I am less-than-confident, I’ve realized that I don’t have the strength to face these situations on my own. However, when I remind myself that I am a child of God and he loves me, I find strength. I don’t have to overcome my fears alone. God is with me, and he will help me.

Here are a few verses that have helped me gain confidence. Reflect on them as you encounter your own scary and intimidating situations today.

1. God is working in us.
   And so I am sure that God, who began this good work in you, will carry it on until it is finished on the Day of Christ Jesus.—Philippians 1:6 (GNTD)
2. God listens to us.
   We have courage in God's presence, because we are sure that he hears us if we ask him for anything that is according to his will.—1 John 5:14 (GNTD)
3. We are God’s children.
   It is through faith that all of you are God's children in union with Christ Jesus. --Galatians 3:26 (GNTD)
4. God gives us strength.
   I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me. --Philippians 4:13 (GNTD)
5. God is with us.
   Be determined and confident. Do not be afraid of them. Your God, the Lord himself, will be with you. He will not fail you or abandon you. --Deuteronomy 31:6 (GNTD)