Week 35 - Matthew 10:26-31

So do not be afraid of them. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

Life Application Study Bible, NIV footnotes:

Jesus said that God is aware of everything that happens even to sparrows, and you are far more valuable to him than they are.  You are so valuable that God sent his only Son to die for you (John 3:16).  Because God places such value on you, you need never fear personal threats or difficult trials. These can't shake God's love or dislodge his Spirit from within you.

But this doesn't mean that God will take away all your troubles.  The real test of value is how well something holds up under the wear, tear and abuse of everyday life.  Those who stand up for Christ in spite of their troubles truly have lasting value and will receive great rewards.

Fear God, not man!