[Jesus continued,] "What is the price of five sparrows — two copper coins? Yet God does not forget a single one of them. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows."
—Luke 12:6-7 NLT
Jesus' words in the previous sentences were strong; [1] some would even say his words were harsh. Jesus reminded us in today's verses, however, that God's desire is not to punish, harm, or bring retribution on us. His desire is to love and bless us. One clear example is simply to look in the created world and see how he has provided for all sorts of animals and birds because of his loving care. It has been so from creation. [2] Long before anyone had ever heard of organizations like PETA or the Humane Society, God showed his love by giving each creature its space and place. Yet we are definitely more valuable than any animal or any other thing that God created. Jesus wants us to know how precious we are to God, so he taught this lesson in Luke 12 and then went out and demonstrated it on the cross!
[1] Luke 12:1-5.
[2] Genesis 1:30.
Father, thank you for knowing me, valuing me, and loving me. Most of all, dear Father, thank you for sending Jesus to show your great love for me. In Jesus' name, I offer my deepest thanks and praise. Amen.
Ⓒ 1996-2023 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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—Luke 12:6-7 NLT
Key Thought
Jesus' words in the previous sentences were strong; [1] some would even say his words were harsh. Jesus reminded us in today's verses, however, that God's desire is not to punish, harm, or bring retribution on us. His desire is to love and bless us. One clear example is simply to look in the created world and see how he has provided for all sorts of animals and birds because of his loving care. It has been so from creation. [2] Long before anyone had ever heard of organizations like PETA or the Humane Society, God showed his love by giving each creature its space and place. Yet we are definitely more valuable than any animal or any other thing that God created. Jesus wants us to know how precious we are to God, so he taught this lesson in Luke 12 and then went out and demonstrated it on the cross!
[1] Luke 12:1-5.
[2] Genesis 1:30.
Today's Prayer
Father, thank you for knowing me, valuing me, and loving me. Most of all, dear Father, thank you for sending Jesus to show your great love for me. In Jesus' name, I offer my deepest thanks and praise. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
Ⓒ 1996-2023 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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