Every year as October rolls around, Christians face the same question: What do I do with “spooky season”?
The decorations come out — cobwebs, skeletons, ghosts, jack-o-lanterns. Neighbors plan trick-or-treat routes. Friends invite us to costume parties. Kids get excited about candy and dress-up. And as believers, we wrestle with how to engage.
Should we avoid it altogether? Should we participate in small ways? Is there a way to shine Christ’s light without compromising our faith?
If you’ve ever asked these questions, you’re not alone. In fact, many Christian families wrestle with how to handle October. Some avoid Halloween completely, while others see it as a gospel opportunity. The key is walking faithfully, discerning what honors Christ, protecting our families, and pointing others to Jesus.
Let’s unpack what Scripture says and explore practical ways to shine the light of Christ during spooky season.
Why This Question Matters
The Bible is clear: as followers of Jesus, we are called to live differently from the world around us. Paul writes, “For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light” (Ephesians 5:8).
That means we can’t just go along with culture blindly. But it also doesn’t mean we must live in fear. Our posture is not to retreat in panic but to advance in faith — knowing that light always shines brightest in the dark.
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5)
Spooky season gives us a chance to live that out.
Common Questions Christians Ask About Halloween
1. Is it sinful to let my kids dress up and go trick-or-treating?
2. What if I feel convicted not to participate at all?
3. How do I keep my kids safe from fear and spiritual confusion?
This is one of the most important questions. We need to talk to our kids about this season. Scripture calls parents to teach God’s truth diligently (Deuteronomy 6:6–7). If we don’t talk to them about what the Bible says regarding darkness, then the world will tell them all they want to know. We must help them discern truth and have wisdom so they will be able to navigate this season as they get older.
Instead of ignoring the season, use it as an opportunity to point out the difference between light and darkness, truth and lies, good and evil. Kids are remarkably perceptive when given biblical language for what they see.
Biblical Principles for Navigating Spooky Season
1. Be Set Apart Without Being Absent
Jesus prayed for His disciples: “I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one.” (John 17:15).
As believers, we are called to be different, but we’re not called to disappear. Our presence in the community matters. This doesn’t mean you have to participate in the spooky season as the world participates. It means your engagement (whatever that looks like) should reflect Christ.
2. Replace Fear With Faith
Spooky season thrives on fear. Haunted houses, horror movies, and grotesque decorations are designed to unsettle. But Scripture says, “God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7).
We don’t need to fear Halloween — or any other day. Christ has already conquered death and the grave. Let’s model confidence in Him rather than retreating in fear.
3. Guard Against Darkness
While we need not fear, we must be wise. Paul urges us: “Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.” (Ephesians 5:11).
That means avoiding practices that glorify death, witchcraft, or demonic activity. It also means teaching our families to recognize the difference between faith-based fun and spiritually dangerous participation.
4. Use Every Opportunity for Witness
What if we saw this season as a mission field? Think about it — when else do all your neighbors come to your door in a single night?
“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16).
Practical Ways to Shine the Light
Hospitality at the Door: Be the house that overflows with joy, kindness, and generosity. Take a moment to invite each family to your church, pray for them, and plant seeds of the Gospel.
Prayer Walk: As you walk with your kids, pray over each home, asking God to bring His light and truth into that family.
Family Devotion: Read passages like John 8:12, “I am the light of the world,” and anchor your kids’ hearts in truth. By the way, this shouldn’t just take place in October. Family devotion should take place January-December. (Check out our blog titled, “Family Devotion Time” for more information and ideas on this topic!)
Alternative Gatherings: If trick-or-treating doesn’t sit right with you, invite families over for fellowship, food, and a focus on Christ as the true Light.
Encouragement for Moms and Dads
Parents, remember: you are not alone in navigating this. The Holy Spirit is your guide. Some families will participate, others will abstain. What matters most is that you prayerfully discern what honors Christ for your family.
James 1:5, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
So ask the Lord:
- Will this choice point my family closer to Christ?
- Will this practice compromise our witness or dim our light?
- Does this decision flow from faith or from fear?
Spooky season doesn’t have to be confusing or fear-filled. As believers, we have a firm foundation:
Jesus is the Light of the World (John 8:12).
We are called to be children of light (1 Thessalonians 5:5).
Darkness will never overcome the light (John 1:5).
So how can you shine the light of Christ this season? By walking in wisdom, refusing to compromise with darkness, and courageously loving the people around you.
Whether you choose to hand out candy with Scripture, host a light-filled alternative, or quietly set the night apart in prayer, let your decision be rooted in God’s Word and His Spirit’s leading. Because ultimately, the question is: Will I let Christ’s light shine through me — in every season?