Session 12

Why you don’t have to worry

From Luke: A 24-Day Devotional

In Luke 12, Jesus speaks to His disciples about anxiety and fear. Four times, Jesus specifically tells them not to be afraid. His message is made more significant because His life is in danger. A group of religious leaders called the Pharisees are plotting to take His life. Naturally, Jesus' disciples are concerned for their own safety. Jesus understands their concerns. He knows our fears and needs, too. He knows when we're worried about our children, jobs, health, and finances.

Jesus puts everything in perspective for the disciples. God is in control of our eternity. He doesn't forget the sparrows, and He won't forget us either. God feeds the birds and clothes the flowers, and He'll take far better care of us than He does of ravens and lilies. Twice, Jesus speaks of our value. We are much more valuable to God than birds, so valuable, in fact, that He's coming back from heaven to get us, and He wants us to be ready.

God, our Father, values us and has “chosen gladly” to give us His eternal kingdom. When we understand God's love and our unearned worth to Him, we'll stop worrying and start being faithful. Earthly cares will lose their grip on us. We'll be set free to seek God's kingdom first, store up treasure in heaven, start ministering to others, and become faithful stewards of all He's given us until He comes again.

Reflect:

• What is one thing you are worried about?
• What is one thing that hinders you from trusting God with your future?
• What is one step you can take today to give your worries to Jesus and start living in faith?