Caution and Comfort

ByJim Stephens

Scripture: Luke 12:1-12

1 Meanwhile, the crowds grew until thousands were milling about and stepping on each other. Jesus turned first to his disciples and warned them, “Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees—their hypocrisy. 2 The time is coming when everything that is covered up will be revealed, and all that is secret will be made known to all… 4 “Dear friends, don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot do any more to you after that. 5 But I’ll tell you whom to fear. Fear God, who has the power to kill you and then throw you into hell. Yes, he’s the one to fear. 6 “What is the price of five sparrows—two copper coins? Yet God does not forget a single one of them. 7 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…11“And when you are brought to trial in the synagogues and before rulers and authorities, don’t worry about how to defend yourself or what to say, 12 for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what needs to be said.” (Luke 12:1-2,4-7,11-12 NLT)

In the midst of the crowd, Jesus turns to his disciples and warns them (and us) against the “yeast” of hypocrisy:

  • Don’t pretend to be something you’re not! Be yourself! Don’t wear a mask! One day all the masks will be removed and every secret will be known by all!
  • Don’t be afraid of people—their opinions, their rejection, or their power to harm you. They can’t touch your precious soul! If you’re going to fear anyone, fear God! But you don’t have to be afraid of God, because to God you’re not just a face in the crowd. God knows you intimately, and God loves you unconditionally!
  • Don’t worry about threats and accusations and defending yourselves! Simply trust the Holy Spirit to give you the words to say and the grace to say them!

The Christian life is lived in the Light. We don’t have to hide our sins (God already knows them), and we don’t have to fear our enemies (God already rules them). We can breathe deeply, knowing we are fully seen and fiercely protected!

Prayer:

Father, Thank you that I don’t have to hide from you. I know you look upon me with the love of a Father, not the scrutiny of a judge. Forgive me for the times I have feared the opinions or the power of people more than I have revered you. When I feel small or overlooked, remind me of the sparrows. If not one of them is forgotten, I know I am held firmly in your heart. As I face the pressures of this day, quiet my anxious thoughts. When I don’t know what to say or how to defend my faith, I trust your Holy Spirit to give me the right words at the right time. Thank you with all my heart! In Jesus’ Name.