Devotion: Wonder of the Word

So do not be afraid of them. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. 

And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before men, I will disown him before my Father in heaven.  Matthew 10:26-33 NIV

Jesus was sending his disciples out to spread the gospel.  He knew they would encounter difficulties.  He knew there were people who were not willing to listen, and even people who wanted to do them harm.  All of Jesus’s followers can expect problems, possibly even persecution.  And yet, the disciples and all Christians are called to boldly proclaim the truths Jesus taught.  This is not an easy task but God gives us the courage – and the words to share our faith.  We need not be afraid of sharing God’s Word because God will be with us.  These words are comforting and helpful when we think about sharing His Word with others.

Even though I know this message pertains to doing God’s work on earth by spreading his love and Word, I love this Bible passage because I know God’s protection will be there in all circumstances.  Recently, I became a grandmother for the fourth time.  This is always a joyous time and I am thrilled about the safe delivery and good health of grandson #4.  But this delivery and the delivery of one other grandson was fraught with some fear and a whole lot of praying by this grandmother.  Things don’t always go as planned and sometimes there are anxious moments in the birth of a baby and many other times in our life.

But isn’t God’s promise wonderful?  “. . . And even the very hairs of your head are numbered. So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” Even in those times when we are afraid for ourselves or others, he is right there—by our side, saying “Do not be afraid.”  He wraps us in His wonderful arms of comfort, strength and courage.  All I need to say is “Please help,” and He is with me and telling me He will take care of things.  He has a plan and we will never be alone.  He can solve any problem, take care of any family member, and keep us calm knowing we are in His loving arms.  Thank You, Jesus, for the wonder of Your Word and the blessing it brings to all.

Dear Heavenly Father, We are so grateful for this promise. Thank You for being right beside us during the inevitable times of crisis.  Thank You for saying, “. . . don’t be afraid,” because with You, we know we are safe.   We know there is wonder in the words you speak.  Let us not be afraid to share these words so You can show everyone Your comfort and love.  In the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.   Amen.

This devotion is written by Julie Johnson.

If you would like to serve as a member of the Sheridan Lutheran Writing Team and help to write devotions based on the text for the weekend, contact Amy Wagner.