Of More Value

Luke 12:6-7

Last summer, while visiting Masada National Park in southern Israel, I captured this photo of five sparrows perched on the ancient wall. Different types of birds fly around the ruins at Masada, and I enjoy watching them glide on the wind currents and flit from stone to stone. Birds remind me that I should not be fearful, worry, or fret. 

Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows. 

- Luke 12:6-7 

First, Dr. Luke asks a question about the value of five sparrows. The buyer can secure five small sparrows for two copper coins in the market. The Roman copper coin, assarion, is only worth about 1/16 of a denarius (one day’s wage). Their apparent value is less than one hour of labor. 

Next, the author shares a vital truth—God does not forget them. Birds are living creatures, part of His creative design. He watches over and provides for even the smallest and, seemingly, least important ones. And then he notes that the Lord knows how many hairs are on our heads. Pause. Think about counting every hair on your head. This is a notable truth. 

We are of more value than these small sparrows. Therefore, do not fear. Friends, this is a compelling statement; our hearts can find tranquility and comfort in this promise. 

“Fear not” are two significant words found over 100 times in the Bible. Reviewing many verses, we find these words spoken to many people in the Bible: Abraham, Moses, Joshua, Gideon, Ruth, David, Isaiah, Daniel, Joel, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Mary Magdalene. Jesus also spoke these words many times to His disciples. 

Proverbs 1:7 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” This truth involves our reverential awe of Almighty God. But there is an aspect of fear that will rob us of our joy, peace, and purpose. Mark Twain said, “I’ve had a lot of worries in my life, most of which never happened.” Researchers tell us that over 90% of our worries will never occur. 

I believe the Lord desires for His children to release their fear and worry. He calls us to wait on Him. God wants us to trust His plan and purpose. These words from the prophet, Isaiah offer great peace and comfort for our hearts. 

For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.”

- Isaiah 41:13

Have you ever considered the thought that the Lord your God wants to hold your right hand? Each of us is created in God’s image. We are fearfully and wonderfully made. He watches over us, and we have great value to our Heavenly Father. 

Head to Heart   

Take a few moments to identify 2 or 3 fears in your life today. Write them down. Hold that list of fears in your right hand and take it to the Lord in prayer. Commit each “fear” into the mighty hands of your loving and merciful Father. He wants to comfort, guide, and help you. 

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