In his comedy routine, Jerry Seinfeld refers to a survey he read about people's fear. It said that the number 1 fear, of most people, was public speaking. The number 2 fear was death. So his joke goes, "At a funeral, most people would rather be the one in the casket then the one delivering the eulogy."I can certainly understand the fear of public speaking. When I was in High School and College, I didn't really have a fear of public speaking. I think this was due to the fact that I had so many opportunities to speak in public, that I got used to it. Whether it was giving a speech in a class, or bringing a lesson in my youth group, or running for student counsel, there were always times I had to speak in public.
As an adult, it seems the opportunities to speak in public, for most people, are few and far between. With that, it is easy to get out of practice. Being out of practice makes you unsure of yourself and thus the fear sets in.
Since being ordained, and sometimes being asked to bring the message on Sunday mornings, I have had to work on re-establishing my public speaking skills. In no way am I saying I am a great public speaker, but the more I do it, the more comfortable I feel.
Often times there are people that God has really put something wonderful in their heart to share with others, but, because of their fear of public speaking, they keep it inside. If that is you, I would encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and share what God has laid on your heart. What you have to say may be a real blessing to someone. And, the more you step out and share your story, the easier it will be to share it with even more people and the more God will be glorified.
8 comments:
Wise Words, well spoken, Scott. As a college teacher, I get a positive emotional rush from speaking to classes, nearly every week. However, when the classes change, there is still just a bit of nervous trepidation about meeting a group of new students for the first time. I've learned how to control it and push on for the pleasure of sharing what I feel is valuable to others, but it is a lot of work and takes a lot of energy.
I love public speaking and have never had much fear about doing it. I've always thought that was an odd thing for so many people to "fear".
Scott you do a good job at speaking, you always kept my attention. I have this fear of public speaking, but i hope to get over it some time
Jim, you remind us that there are many different gifts in the body of Christ. I have heard many times from Scott and Sarah that Jim is a real asset and a great contributor. People have noticed your gifts whether you are comfortable speaking or not.
Public speaking is not my cup of tea. I am not sure what the Lord has given me as my gift. Scott you were blessed to have been taught from your early years to prayer and to speak in public by Bill Thacker. Jim I have heard about you faithfulness so the Lord will give you the courage you need for public speaking. My english skills are terrible but I feel I have acheived a few things in life but not without the Lord.
I think that no matter what you feel your gifts may be, if God calls you to do something, he will equip you to do it. Whether it is public speaking or anything else.
Scott
I sent my comment anonymous in error I really believe what you said God will equip you in the way you need at the time you need it.
You know my computer skills also lack I tried to correct my mistake with another mistake
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