Luke 12:32 (ESV)
“Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”
DEVOTIONAL
This simple verse, tucked into the middle of Jesus’ teaching, is like balm to a weary heart. It’s a tender word from the Good Shepherd to His sheep — small, vulnerable, and easily afraid. But oh, how full of grace and comfort these few words are.
“Fear not” — These are the words of Christ Himself. He knows our tendency to worry. He knows how easily our hearts can tremble — at the future, at suffering, at loss, at our own sin. But He doesn’t scold us for our fears. He speaks peace into them. Like a shepherd quieting a restless lamb, Jesus calls us to rest in Him. His command is not harsh; it’s kind. It’s not a demand to toughen up — it’s an invitation to trust.
“Little flock” — This is how He sees us. Not as a massive army or a powerful institution, but as a flock — little, dependent, in need of a shepherd’s care. And yet, this is no insult. It’s a term of endearment. We are His. Chosen, called, and carried by grace. A small flock in the eyes of the world, but infinitely precious to the heart of God.
“It is your Father’s good pleasure…” — Do not miss this. The One who holds all things in His hands — who rules the heavens and the earth — is your Father. Not a distant ruler, not a reluctant benefactor, but a loving Father. And He doesn’t give begrudgingly. It is His joy, His delight, His pleasure to bless His children. What a staggering thought — the Creator of all delights to give.
“…to give you the kingdom.” — This is not about small comforts or temporary pleasures. This is about the kingdom. Eternal life. Righteousness. Peace. Joy in the Holy Spirit. The full inheritance of all that Christ has won. This isn’t earned. It’s given. Freely. Graciously. Because the Son has paid the price in full.
So take heart today, child of God. Whatever fears are pressing in, whatever uncertainties lie ahead — remember whose you are. You belong to the Shepherd. You are loved by the Father. And the kingdom is yours, not because of your strength, but because of His grace.
Rest in that. Rejoice in that. Walk forward without fear.
A Prayer:
Gracious Father,
Thank You for seeing me in my smallness, and yet not turning away. Thank You that in Your great mercy, You call me Your own — part of Your little flock, watched over by the Shepherd who laid down His life for me.
Help me, Lord, to quiet my anxious heart. To trust not in my strength, but in Your care. Remind me daily that it is Your pleasure to give — not because I am worthy, but because You are good.
Teach me to treasure the kingdom more than the things of this world. Fix my eyes on Christ. Let His cross be my comfort, His Word my guide, and His promises my peace.
I believe, Lord. Help my unbelief.
In the name of Jesus, my Shepherd and King,
Amen.