Have No Fear: God Provides

Are not two sparrows sold for a cent? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father (Matthew 10:29).

 

Sparrows are so common we don’t take note of them much anymore. They are not as large as an eagle nor as colorful as a peacock that we would notice them. They’re just a common, ordinary bird. While we don’t care much about sparrows, God does. They are part of His creation.

 

The context of this word from Jesus remains within the realm of being a witness. Jesus was preparing His disciples to be apostles - sent ones. They were to go throughout the nation of Israel to prepare the people for Jesus’ ministry. Some would welcome them and their message, others would not. There was the fearful prospect of opposition to the point of persecution. Jesus addressed their fears with five words of encouragement:

 

• Don’t be afraid if people call you demons, they have called Me the same.

• Don’t be afraid of what to say, I have given you the truth.

• Don’t be afraid of persecution, God has given you eternal life.

• Don’t be afraid of lack of provision, God will take care of you.

• Don’t be afraid if you believe yourself insignificant, God is aware of you.

 

Jesus told His disciples to be totally dependent upon God during their mission. Do not acquire gold, or silver, or copper for your money belts, or a bag for your journey, or even two coats, or sandals, or a staff; for the worker is worthy of his support (Matthew 10:9-10). God would provide for their needs supernaturally or through the ministry of those families who would receive them, just as He is aware of the life and needs of the insignificant sparrow.

 

Since we believe God is the Sovereign Lord over all of His creation, we also believe He providentially controls every situation and circumstance involving us today. We are more important to God than sparrows. Christians are vitally important to God. People may not recognize the need for, nor appreciate the presence and activities of Christians or the Christian church, but God does. Through our work and witness the powers of hell are restrained. When the Christian church is removed from the earth (the rapture) the demonic hosts will overrun the nations with little resistance (Revelation 6 - 19). 

 

“Lord God, thank You for Your vigilance over the smallest details of Your creation. It is comforting to know that You are aware of who I am, what I do, and what I need in life, and that you supply my needs through Your resources in glory. You are gracious and merciful to me moment by moment and day by day. For this I am truly grateful to You. May my continued witness be to Your honor and glory, Amen.”

 

Pastor