“Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known. What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops. And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. “
Matthew 10:26-31 (KJV) [emphasis is mine]
When Jesus sent the Church into the world to make disciples of all nations, He knew His disciples would face dangers. Matthew relates some of our Lord’s concerns when He sent the Twelve out on their first mission, which was exclusive to Israel.
They were to exhibit servanthood. They were to depend upon God rather than the world’s gold. The spirit of materialism and the spirit of sacrifice are enemies. Jesus knew that material wealth breeds self-reliance, greed, and addiction to things. His servant-disciples must depend upon Him. They were to conduct themselves wisely but without harming others. They were to beware of possible persecution, and not be surprised by its sources. Jesus explained, “Whoever is of the world will treat you like they treat me; whether it’s a formal court or your family members.” What then is the key to discipleship and success of the mission? Rely on the Holy Spirit and do not fear the actions of the opposition. Faith conquers fear!
We all need encouragement against fear. It is a side-effect of the Fall. If the adversary can generate fear in us, he has created a real obstacle to God’s purpose and mission. Yet, three times in His instructions, Jesus said “do not fear.” Do not fear the temptations, the persecutions, and the rejections. Do not fear the threats, the court sentences, and those who can only kill the body. Do not fear anyone or anything because you are God’s and God considers you more valuable than many sparrows. Faith conquers fear!
Yes, God wants the world to be saved. He also wants His children to live free from the abuses the world can inflict upon them. Herein is a seeming contradiction that exhibits the extent of God’s love, which is beyond our capacity to grasp. He loves His children and doesn’t want us to be hurt, yet He sends us into the world because He also loves those who reject Him. His grace serves those who haven’t heard the Gospel of Christ as well as those who willingly make sure the world gets to hear it.
Dear Father, thank you for deliverance from the adversary. Empower us with the faith that conquers all fear. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today with faith that conquers your fear,