God values your soul
Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | June 15, 2023 | Matthew 18:12-14
KEY VERSE:
In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish. Matthew 18:14 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
In Matthew 18:12-14, Jesus shares a beautiful parable that reveals the heart of God towards the lost. This passage reminds us that God values every single soul and desires that none should be lost. It paints a vivid picture of a loving and compassionate Shepherd who goes to great lengths to seek and save the one who is lost.
The parable begins with the image of a shepherd who has a hundred sheep but leaves the ninety-nine to search for the one that has gone astray. This demonstrates that the value God places on every soul is beyond our comprehension. The parable highlights the reality of human nature. We often get entangled in the snares of sin and lose our way. However, God's heart is filled with compassion and mercy even in our wandering. He doesn't abandon us to our own devices but actively pursues us, desiring to bring us back into the fold of His love.
When the shepherd finds the lost sheep, he rejoices and calls his friends and neighbours to celebrate with him. Likewise, heaven celebrates when even a single soul repents and turns back to God. This highlights the incredible importance of each person in God's eyes and reinforces the truth that He longs for everyone to come to repentance. Jesus emphasizes the immense joy in heaven over the repentance of a sinner.
The parable beautifully illustrates God's relentless pursuit of the lost sheep. The shepherd leaves the ninety-nine in the safety of the fold and embarks on a search for the one who strayed. This reveals the lengths to which God is willing to go to rescue us. He seeks us in the wilderness of our sin reaching out to us with arms of love and grace, calling us back into the fold of His care and protection.
FEET HANDS OF MESSAGE
Where have you strayed to, or do you sometimes feel like going your own way? Regardless of our flaws, mistakes, or wandering, God's love for us remains constant. We are precious in His sight, and He is committed to our redemption and restoration. We, like the lost sheep, cannot save ourselves. Only through the grace and mercy of God, who actively seeks us out, can we find redemption and reconciliation with Him. Remember God loves you and never delight in your being lost.
PRAYER:
Dear Lord, thank you for your unending love and patience towards me. Thank you for your promise to never leave me nor forsake me. I ask for Your guidance and direction in every aspect of my life. Lead me on the straight and narrow path, that I may follow You wholeheartedly in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen!
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
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