Do not Be Afraid
(Matthew 10:24-33)
It is naturally expected that we, as disciples and servants of Jesus, will face persecution. Since our Teacher and Master Jesus, was persecuted first, it is not strange at all for those who offer themselves to His work to be persecuted as well. Therefore, we should hold firm in our conviction towards the last day. Only those who are determined to prepare for that day will overcame and face it with boldness. Jesus provided three reasons in His words for us not to be afraid.
1. God, who Observes Every Detail of Our Lives
God carefully observes every detail of our lives. Though Christ’s disciples may face unjust suffering in this world, on the last day, God Himself will personally vindicate the fact that we have striven to fulfill His righteousness on this earth. Furthermore, He will expose all the evil deeds of those who have persecuted us and use them as the basis for their punishment.
2. God, who can Destroy Even Our Spirits
The maximum harm that the persecutors can take is to kill our physical bodies. However, they cannot destroy our spirits. Even if our bodies are put to death by them, we will ultimately be resurrected and stand firmly as eternal beings. Therefore, it is God whom we should fear, as He has the power to destroy not only physical bodies but also our spirits.
3. God, who Values Us
As our Father, God highly values us. Even the smallest and insignificant sparrow does not fall to the ground without God’s permission. This God is our Father who cherishes and takes care of us in even the smallest details of our lives with greatest attention, to the extent of even numbering the hairs on our heads. If God is so attentive to the smallest aspects of our lives, how much more does He care about the spiritual challenges we face? We must remember that we always dwell within the realm of God’s authority and protection in every situation.
May 28, 2023
Overseer Sung-Hyun Kim
