You are worth more than many sparrows
“Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father.” Mt 10:29.
In vv 28, Jesus Christ was telling his disciples not to fear them who can only kill the body, but cannot kill the soul; but to fear God who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell fire. Then our Saviour asked this retheorical question, “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing?” How much is a farthing? This is about a quarter of a Roman coin, or a penny. The sparrows must cheap to be sold for such a ridiculous amount, you will agree.
“Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?” Lk 12:6. Now, wait a minute… There’s is no contradictions here. In another statement recorded by Saint Matthew, the Lord mentioned five sparrows being sold for two farthings. It is still the same thing. Buy two sparrows for a farthing; or buy four sparrows for two farthings and get one free. Now, this can only point to the fact that the sparrows are cheap because they are easy to ensnare in the bush.
“And one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father.” Now, this is where we are going. As easy to catch or kill as the sparrows are, a sparrow cannot die without God saying so. No matter how much the hunter tried, if God did not permit it, he will not be able to ensnare or kill a sparrow. Then the Lord followed it up with this beautiful statement, “But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.” Lk 10:7. This is wonderful!
Since God is so protective of ordinary bush fowl, what Jesus was telling us is that we should expect greater protection from God as we are more valuable to Him than countless number of sparrows. What is it or who is it that is making you to be afraid? As His child, God will never allow your enemies to overcome you. “When thou passest through the waters, I [will be] with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.” Is 43:2. Beloved, as God’s eyes are on the sparrows, be rest assured that He watches over you as well. “Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” Is 41:10.
His eyes are on the sparrows(hymn)
– by Civilla D. Martin (1905):
Why should I feel discouraged,
Why should the shadows come,
Why should my heart be lonely,
And long for heav’n and home;
When Jesus is my portion?
My constant Friend is he;
His eye is on the sparrow,
And I know he watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow,
And I know he watches me.
Refrain:
I sing because I’m happy,
I sing because I’m free;
For his eye is on the sparrow,
And I know he watches me.
Prayer:
‘Father God we thank you for caring so much for us. We need not be afraid of any evil because we know you are always watching over us your children. Thank you for your unfailingly love, in the name of Jesus. Amen.”
#sparrow #protection #fear #afraid
