His Eye Is on You
In Luke 12:4-7, Jesus told His followers not to fear those who can harm them because God is ultimately in control. God cares greatly about His followers when they experience pain and suffering. This stems from the watchful care God has for all of His creation. The Almighty who keeps the planets in their orbits is at the same time aware of a lowly sparrow that falls to the ground. Since He is even aware of what most would consider an insignificant event, how much more is He aware of the concerns of His children?
As Jesus said,
You are of more value than many sparrows.
Jesus pointed out that
five sparrows [are] sold for two copper coins. — Luke 12:6
As for your value, Jesus died on the Cross to save you from sin and eternal separation from God. Having died for you, Jesus commits Himself to caring for you. He cares so much for you He even knows how many hairs are on your head.
When you name Jesus as your Savior and honor Him with your life, you need not fear anything in this world. You can rest knowing God’s caring eye is watching over you.
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If you were to read the news headlines, you might infer that no one is in control of worldwide events, yet those who love the Lord know otherwise. Today’s verse speaks of God’s sovereign power over evil. After acknowledging His disciples would experience great tribulation, Jesus told them not to fear because He had “overcome the world.”
Jesus knew the disciples were about to face life without Him and would endure persecution for His name’s sake. In fact, all of them, excluding John, would eventually give their lives furthering the gospel message. Likewise, Christians today still face pain and suffering due to persecution or disease or broken relationships.
Yet God graciously uses suffering to compel you to lean into Him, to grow and refine your faith, to receive His comfort, and to keep your eyes on Heaven. Yes, you will experience heartache, disappointment, unfairness, and outright evil in the world, but do not despair because Jesus has overcome this world. When going through tribulation, you can take comfort in the promise of
a new Heaven and a new earth… [where] there shall be no more pain. — Revelation 21:1, Revelation 21:4
Excerpted with permission from The Red Letter Words of Jesus by Jack Countryman, copyright Jack Countryman.
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Your Turn
We’re ten days into this new year now, and wouldn’t you know it? Troubles followed us here. Fear tailed us. Heartbreak didn’t give us a break. But, Psalm 23:6 says surely goodness and loving kindness shall follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. God’s goodness and mercy follow us like guard dogs. He is in complete control and He is good, so we can take comfort in Him and rest. Amen? Come share your thoughts with us on our blog! We want to hear from you! ~ Devotionals Daily