Wednesday, August 8, 2012

August 9, 2012 ~ We are worth so much!




“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”
Luke 12:6-7 (NIV)

Thoughts~

As I observe the sparrows that I love so much, they are such a perfect reminder to me personally of God’s love and care for me. I am worth more than these sweet little birds that He created. So much more.

When we are told not to be afraid, it is tempting to respond “well, you just don’t understand my problem” but God tells us through Luke that we are not to be afraid. Period.  End of story. If God cares so much about the sparrows then why would we ever think He would not care even more about us, His children? We all know that the enemy of God loves to tell us God does not have time for us individually. And that liar of an enemy is always wrong.

When I began my financial struggles in 2008 as the recession grabbed hold of the Phoenix area, I made up my mind I would not be afraid. That I would repeat over and over and over, Proverbs 3:5-6. I also found several verses that gave me strength but it was the Proverbs one that gave me the most power.

With God on my side, why should I be afraid? Am I some super hero Christian? Hardly. As my favorite earth hero Chuck Swindoll tells us, all Christians who are growing spiritually will always be tempted by satan and tested by God. I kind of giggle when people think that mature believers have it made and the trials are over. Over would be explained as the last day we spend on earth.

Trials will follow us around like the pied piper had rats following him. It is those trials that make us stronger in our faith and we are able to experience true inner peace, not fear. So next time you feel afraid, look skyward and be reminded that God cares more for you than He does the sparrows. Do not be afraid, trust in the Lord with all of your heart.

Action~

Make a list of your fears.  All of them. Big ones, little ones and in between ones. And then pray over them and ask God to show you His peace. Ask Him to remind you that you do not need to be afraid. Ever.

Think back on some of your fears and how after the situation was over, you spend so much time worrying and being afraid . . . time that could have been spent praying and serving Him instead.

Pray~

Father, I know you see me full of worth in your eyes. Please teach me to take my fears and toss them in the face of your enemy.

Trusting in Him,
Becky

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the LORD with all your heart
And do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He will make your paths straight.