Matthew 10:28-30 [NIV] | 28 Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. 30 And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Life is filled with fear. We fear for our safety in a world that can be violent. We fear for our lives when we hear about random shootings. We fear for our lives when a disease takes over our body and all may seem lost. God knows our fears. Jesus experienced our fears during his life on earth. Jesus says, “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul… Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care.” We fall in our Father’s care.
No matter what life challenges we may be facing we are constantly in our Father’s care. God despises sin and casts his judgement upon it. Make no mistake, sin comes with a penalty – death, but Jesus overcame death. In our fear we cling to the promises and hope God gives us in his unconditional love and care through Jesus. Unfortunately, in our sinful state we are afraid of the troubles we face in life. Satan tempts us into believing God does not care, listen, or concern himself with our situations. God cares.
God cares not only about the “big” problems and situations of life, but also about the tiniest details. Consider for a moment how much we care for a penny or it’s purchasing power. What we deem as worthless or of little value, God sees as a treasure to be highly regarded. We are to fear the one who can destroy our faith and trust in God. When we begin to see and experience ourselves becoming distant from God, we can use the words of Jesus, “Get behind me Satan.” God’s Word is powerful and alive working in and through our lives. Our fear, our reverence, and our love for God is all we need. Do not be afraid for God is with you.
Prayer:
Lord, there are times in our lives we face fear and doubt. We praise you for the love and care you have for each of us. May your Holy Spirit lead us to the cross as we place our lives in your hands. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Action Plan:
Today I will place my fears in the hands of God and trust in his care.