Worry and anxiety have become so prevalent they’ve essentially become normalized in modern society.
Overly concerned about what tomorrow will bring? You’re in good company. Anxious about how you’ll make it through this particular phase of life? Get in line. Have a deep sense of existential dread? Join the club.
Worry may be normalized, but that’s because it isn’t anything new. That’s not to downplay the serious issues and challenges that should properly concern us. It’s simply to note that people from every age have struggled with worry – and that includes Christians. Sometimes we worry about immediate and concrete things: “What are we going to eat tomorrow?” Sometimes we worry about far off abstract things: “How will my family remember me when I’m gone?”
No matter your worry though, Jesus has amazing words to calm worried and wearied souls.
He was about to send his twelve disciples out into the towns of Israel, and he was warning them of the obstacles they would face (and would worry about). And so he spoke to their hearts and ours and reminded them that God cares for all of his creatures, but he cares especially for us – the crown of his creation. The people he made in his own image. The people who he came to earth to save from sin and restore that image. In your life, there will be plenty of things you could worry about. But you don’t have to. Because God cares for you in this life and he guarantees your eternal life.
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Matthew 10:29
Keep the Conversation Going
For Younger Kids
- Jesus says God takes care of sparrows. How does that help you know He will take care of you too?
- What is something that makes you feel worried, and how can you remember that God cares for you?
For Older Kids
- Why do you think worry feels so normal in life, even for Christians? What does Jesus say that challenges that?
- How does knowing that God values you more than “many sparrows” change the way you think about your future and your fears?
