YOU MATTER 10.02.24

“But even the hairs of your head have all been counted.

So do not be afraid, you are worth more than many sparrows.”

-Matthew 10:30-31

Earlier this summer I was lying in bed talking to God like I do every night. I began thanking Him for all that he has blessed me with, my job, my health, my life. Then I began to pray for my family, specifically my daughter, Berkli. I had dropped her off with her dad a few days earlier for summer break. Often times I think that if she’s in my care that she’s safer. Then all the irrational fears and anxieties began to flood my mind as I’m reminded that she’s not home with me...As I was in the midst of my prayer for my daughter I felt the enemy creeping in. I suddenly felt guilty praying for my daughter and my family. Why am I praying for my family when I should be praying for people who are truly struggling and hurting, battling cancer, chronic illnesses or the ones who may have recently lost a loved one? Then I felt the Holy Spirit grab hold of me and say, “YOU matter to ME. YOUR family matters to ME. YOUR prayers MATTER. TO. ME.” God knows all that is going on, and yes, I always pray for others, family, friends, and so many times strangers and people around the world. He already knows what’s on your heart & mind, so pray about them.

He reminded me in that moment that what I pray for matters. The things that weigh heavy on my heart, matter. A God that takes the time to count the number of hairs on my head surely then cares about the things I feel the need to pray for. There are no prayers too small or insignificant to God - God cares so deeply for us and the things that matter to us. And as He says in verse 31, “do not be afraid, YOU ARE WORTH MORE than many sparrows!”

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for reminding me that I do not need to be afraid and that I am worthy. I ask that you continue to remind me just how much I mean to You. Remind me that I matter, my family, my friends, my needs and my desires matter to You. You place things on my heart and on my mind for a reason and they do not need to go unnoticed. Thank you for caring about me and my needs. I ask these prayers in Jesus Holy name.

Amen.

Reflect | Journal:

What are some things that matter to you that you feel may seem insignificant to God?

Make a list of each one and take the time to present them to God in prayer.