Do you think superstitions are real? Around the world, millions of people feel a subtle or overt sense of caution when a calendar lands on Friday the 13th. Historically, some people even colloquially referred to such a day as a "black Friday" due to its unlucky reputation. (Interestingly, the modern global retail event shares the same name but has completely different, entirely non-superstitious roots!)
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
— 2 Timothy 1:7
Friday the 13th! Some fear it, some look forward to it for its retail extravaganza, and some are superstitious about it.
Where does this fear come from? Anthropologists and historians trace the dread of Friday the 13th to a mix of traditions. Some point to Christian history—specifically the 13 guests present at the Last Supper before Jesus's crucifixion. Others look to specific historical milestones, such as the dramatic mass arrest of the Knights Templar by King Philip IV of France on Friday, October 13, 1307.
When fear, coincidence, and historical trauma intertwine, human nature often looks for patterns, assigning power to numbers and days. But as people of faith, we are invited to look past superstition and anchor our perspective in something much higher. As the Psalmist says - “The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” (Psalm 118:6)
Thought for the day
Superstitions teach us to look out for misfortune in the unseen and the arbitrary. Scripture, however, teaches us to look up to a God who holds every day in His hands. No calendar date, unlucky number, or historical shadow can separate us from His sovereign care.
Arrow Prayer
Lord, guard our hearts against needless fear and anxiety. Remind us that every day is a gift created by You, not governed by superstition or luck. Help us to walk through life with a sound mind, anchored in Your unfailing love and protection. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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