Knowing that you are highly valued and greatly esteemed by the Ruler of the Universe counteracts and negates fear and worry.
“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Therefore do not fear. You are more valuable than many sparrows” (Luke 12: 6-7).
In these verses, Jesus wants to drive home a point. He wants to make sure that we really see what He is promising. He wants to paint a picture in our minds that will stick with us: We don’t have to fear anything, because God—Creator God, Ruler God, Power-over-Life-and-Death God—values and cherishes us. We have great worth to Him.
It’s so improbable a concept that Jesus adds some texture to the promise with a description meant to anchor it in our understanding. When Jesus spoke the words above, He and His audience were outside. Maybe the marketplace was in view and they could see in the distance someone purchasing some sparrows, the cheapest and least-valued bird—the fare of the poor, for the most part. Imagine Jesus pointing in that direction, framing the scene in His hearers’ imaginations and asking, “What is the price of five sparrows—two copper coins?”
Jesus emphasizes that God is fully aware of every single sparrow—creature of little value, cheap to buy. But if God watches over even the sparrows, then surely He watches over and cares for you and me. We don’t have to be afraid of anything, anytime, anywhere. God’s protection and provision for us are so detailed that He knows how many hairs are on our heads. Nothing escapes His notice. Nothing gets past Him. Nothing is hidden from His sight. So Jesus reminds us we don’t need to be afraid.
When anxiety tries to lay claim to your thoughts, when fear seeks a foothold in your mind, when confusion threatens to make a stand in your heart, look to Him; seek His face. He is all the antidote you need to anything that might steal your peace.
Respond
What kinds of worries catch you in their trap? Is something especially worrying you right now? What truth do you know about Your Father that can counteract your worry that is based on a lie?
Jennifer Kennedy Dean adapted from Live a Praying Life™. Jennifer is an author, speaker, conference leader and executive director of the Praying Life Foundation. You may visit her online at prayinglife.org.
