May 1, 2019
Luke 12:4-7 Contemporary English Version (CEV)
Have you noticed how many times we fear something that may never happen? Like a cloud of doom, fear wants to hang over us and diminish the joy of our salvation. We are all tempted to fear the unknown, but have you thought much about fearing God? Biblical faith is associated with the fear or respect of the Lord; to trust him, do his will, and join with him in service. When we give power to fear we are actually pulling our faith and trust away from God. We have not been given a spirit of fear from the Lord; rather, love, power, and self-discipline (2 Tim 1:7). When fear rises up in you, are you more afraid of the unknown than the Known?
In our passage today, Jesus is talking to his disciples about the sin and hypocrisy they must resist; the religious leaders have been threatening Jesus and his disciples with the purpose of stopping their witness for God. The disciples are fearing opposition from these leaders; it is hindering their faith and courage. So, the Lord challenges his disciples to fear what is Known; that God determines humanity’s eternal destination. We can face life without fear, because we belong to God and he loves and values us. He values you! Get that Truth into your heart today.
Luke 12:4-7 The One To Fear
4 My friends, don’t be afraid of people. They can kill you, but after that, there is nothing else they can do. 5 God is the one you must fear. Not only can he take your life, but he can throw you into hell. God is certainly the one you should fear!
6 Five sparrows are sold for just two pennies, but God doesn’t forget a one of them. 7 Even the hairs on your head are counted. So don’t be afraid! You are worth much more than many sparrows.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for this great love you have for me; you value me. I respect you and your power and I am grateful to belong to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.