“Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32). What a tender word from our Savior. He knows how easily our hearts tremble—when we feel weak, when the way is hard, when the enemies of our souls seem strong, when we are painfully aware of our own unworthiness and inadequacies. Yet Jesus quiets every fear with one promise: The Father delights to give us His kingdom.

God’s people have always been a “little flock.” We should not be surprised that true disciples are few. But though small in number, they are infinitely rich in hope. The kingdom of glory awaits them. The world may mock, reject, or despise them, but Christ reminds us that today’s sorrows are nothing compared to the joy to come (Romans 8:18).

And more—believers are not only promised a kingdom, they are cherished by their Father. He does not welcome His children reluctantly but joyfully. Through Christ He looks on us with delight, even in our frailty. One day He will present us spotless before His throne with exceeding joy (Jude 24).

If we belong to Christ’s flock, why should we be afraid? His promises are unshakable. God is ours, Christ is ours, the Spirit is ours. Yes, the world, the flesh, and the devil are strong, but our Shepherd King is stronger still.

The Lord did not send Christ to redeem us, nor the Spirit to indwell us, only to let us perish at the end. The God who calls us to salvation will surely carry us all the way home.

Prayer

Gracious Father, thank You for calling me into Your little flock. Quiet my fears when I feel weak, outnumbered, or unworthy. Teach me to rest in Your delight and to remember that You rejoice to give me the kingdom. Keep my eyes fixed on Christ, my Shepherd and King, and bring me safely home by the power of Your Spirit. Amen.

• Adapted and expanded on from J.C. Ryle’s, Expository Thoughts on the Gospels.