To a dispersed, discouraged and dying group of Christians, Peter wrote, “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you” (1 Peter 5:7). What a wonderful encouragement this must have been for first century saints. In the midst of the greatest struggles they ever had faced, they were reminded of God’s care for them! Surely, one of Satan’s most powerful tools is to cloud the Christian’s thinking, so that he forgets that God is “cheering” for us to win salvation. When we forget that scriptural fact, we become discouraged and overwhelmed as we attempt to run the race of faith (cf. Hebrews 12:1-3). Thankfully, God cares for us! In what ways does God show His care for each of His children?
Firstly, He has listening ears. Peter demanded that his readers cast their care upon God (1 Peter 5:7a). One of the truly wonderful encouragements we must center on each day is that God wants little old me and you to talk to Him! That is extra special! Repeatedly, Scripture divulges that God desires communication from us (1 Thessalonians 5:17; Philippians 4:6, et al.). Someone has correctly written, “There is not in the world a kind of life more sweet and delightful than that of a continual conversation with God.” God’s ears are open to the righteous (1 Peter 3:12). In the midst of your busy, daily schedule, stop often and remember, God cares for you, and His listening ears are waiting to hear your voice!
Secondly, He has helping hands. Sadly, some face each day with the erroneous belief that God is not interested in nor can He do anything about the daily affairs of life. However, Christians know that is false! We know that God’s hands are involved in the daily affairs of life through the means of providence. While we know that God does not work through miraculous means any longer (1 Corinthians 13:8ff), we believe that He does still work. Consider God’s providential power in the life of Joseph, Esther, Daniel, Paul and other biblical characters. God’s hands are involved in our lives (Romans 8:28), which proves God cares for me!
Thirdly, He has watching eyes. An amazing Bible narrative that talks about God’s eyes watching is Israel’s affliction in Egypt. “…I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows” (Exodus 3:7b; cf. Acts 7:34). God sees our struggles and heartaches from His magnificent throne room in heaven. I am reminded of the Lord’s watchful eyes as His faithful martyr Stephen died (Acts 7:55-56). Just imagine, God cares so much that His eyes are continuously watching you (Psalm 34:15; Hebrews 4:13).
I am humbled when I think that God really does care for me. Someone has written, “If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it.” The holy, eternal, most powerful, all-knowing God, who created heaven and earth, cares about you and me! “What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?” (Psalm 8:4). While I cannot successfully answer that inquiry, I believe it and am strengthened day and night by its encouragement! Awesome; He careth for you!
