Nervousness During Public Speaking

[mvillarreal]

Hi, everyone! I am going to be preaching a sermon at my church here in a couple weeks as part of my discernment process, but I am a little nervous about it. One of my biggest fears is that I will be preaching and will get nervous in the middle of my sermon and start dry-heaving in front of everyone, since I get nauseous when anxious. What strategies can I use to help myself cope with anxiety while preaching?

[sweetiepye]

When you speak in church you have a lot going for you. The Congregation will be supporting you. Knowing you are speaking to God's people will strengthen you. Speak as if you are having a regular conversation, look people in the eye , look at different people, smile, don't be afraid of silences as you gather your thoughts, use notes. Nerves usually disappear as you get into your speech. I would usually acknowledge my nerves. I might say I am so nervous today ,but I want to share something with you …. While you are focused on the importance of your message you will think less of your discomfort. Remind yourself of Christ casually talking to those who gathered to hear his word. You might also try some deep breathing exercises , but I bet you won't need them. You are allowed to be weak and receive His Grace. Pam

[I_hurt]

Just know the people in the audience really want you to do well. They are all there routing for you. You are your worst critic. Tell that voice in your head to just sit down and shut up. You have too important a message that these people want to hear and you just can't be bothered by your bad critic inner voice.

You will do fine.

[Agora1]

mvillarreal, How wonderful that you are getting that chance to give a sermon at

your church (a most forgiving place)

In order to control your anxiety, I would start practicing in these next 2 weeks in

speaking slowly with emphasis which will allow you to get in some deep breathes.

Deep breathing is the best and quickest way in allowing the bodily symptoms to

quiet down. I really wish you well and will be thinking of you. Good Luck xx

[Chancalot]

Prepare, prepare prepare. Pretend you are preaching to us, people who need what you have to say. You can do this! Practice deep breathing exercises. You could also use things such as dolls to practice looking in the eyes of your listeners.

[Hidden]

Trust God’s word

Philippians 4:13 New International Version (NIV)

13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

You need to believe God will give you the strength to do this. Also, having someone pray for you during your sermon will strengthen you. You can do this. It would b ok to share with the congregation your fear and have a group prayer before you start.

One of the most powerful sermons I ever heard was my a man named David Ring who was very handicapped with cerebral palsy. He had difficulty speaking and I had to really focus to understand him. He ended with singing What A Friend We Have In Jesus. He could barely talk, did not have a good singing voice but it was so powerful to me, I cried like a baby. So in weakness there is strength. God will use broken vessels. You just have to have faith. Let us know how it goes💜

[MSGSTL]

Practice, practice, practice until you know it like the back of your hand. Realize as well that everyone gets nervous on such occasions. You are in a very loving, caring environment being at church so draw from that as well.

-MSGSTL