Following Jesus: Rest in His care
Passage: Matthew 10:16-31
Preacher: Laura Nelson
What’s the most repeated command in the Bible? Not “be good” or “pray more” or even “love each other.” It’s this: don’t be afraid.
Jesus knew fear would come. He told His disciples they’d be misunderstood, rejected, persecuted, even by family. He warned them they were being sent out like sheep among wolves. And yet, in the same breath, He said, don’t be afraid.
Why? Because we are seen. Known. Loved. God knows the number of hairs on your head. Not even a sparrow falls without His care. And you, He says, are worth more.
Jesus doesn’t pretend it’ll be easy. He tells the truth about opposition. He invites us to respond not with aggression or panic, but like sheep. Gentle and humble. With eyes wide open like snakes. Wise to how the world works. And with innocence like doves. Pure-hearted, not naive.
There’s no call to strive or posture. Just a call to trust. To pray. To sing. To rest.
We heard stories of persecuted believers today. People choosing to stay, even in danger, so others might hear of God’s love. Their courage isn’t rooted in fearlessness. It’s rooted in knowing they’re held.
And that’s the invitation for us too. Whether you're facing rejection, wrestling with anxiety, or just trying to keep your head above water in the everyday pressures. He sees. He knows. He’s with you in the current.
So maybe the bravest thing isn’t to fight harder. Maybe it’s to learn the daily practice of trust. To notice where you felt free or anxious, and to bring it to Jesus. To soak in His presence. And to know, really know, He’s got you.
Don’t be afraid. Rest in Christ.
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
Have you ever experienced rejection, criticism, or unpopularity because of your faith in Jesus? What happened, and how did it affect you?
Jesus told us to be like sheep among wolves, wise like snakes, and innocent like doves. What might that look like in one of your real-life situations, at work, at home, or in your community?
Are there places in your life where the fear of what others think is holding you back from fully following Jesus? What might help you move through that fear?
What simple daily practices could help you become more aware of God's presence and care in the middle of everyday life?
Is there a place or relationship where you sense God prompting you to go, speak up, or live out your faith more boldly? What is stopping you, and what might help you take the next step?
