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A middle-aged woman had a heart attack and was rushed the hospital. While on the operating table she had a near death experience in which she saw God and asked if she was dying. She was relieved to hear God say “No, you have another 30 to 40 years to live.”
Celebrating her new lease on life, the lady decided to stay in the hospital and have major cosmetic surgery: a face lift, liposuction, tummy tuck, etc. She even had someone come in and change her hair color. She figured, since she had many years, she might as well make the most of it.
On the day she was released, the woman walked out the front door and was struck and killed by an ambulance speeding up to the hospital. Arriving before God, she complained, “I thought you said I had another 30 to 40 years?”
God replies, “I’m so sorry, but I didn’t recognize you.”
The story is obviously pure fiction. The truth is: God always recognizes each of us.
Perhaps the most amazing statement in the Bible is not “the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground” when the Red Sea parted, allowing them to escape from Egypt. It’s not, “Peace, be still” when Jesus calmed the sea. It’s not even, “He is not here; he has risen!” when Jesus was raised from the dead.
The most amazing statement is when Jesus says, “even the very hairs of your head are all numbered … So don’t be afraid” (Matthew 10:30-31).
What an astounding statement! How incredible that the all-mighty Creator who could breathe life into dirt, is keenly interested in you and me! That he knows us better than we know ourselves! (I don’t know how many hairs are on my head, do you?) And, that he cares what happens to us, even in the mundane affairs of everyday life!
Sure, he is concerned when you face a major crisis, but God is also aware of even the smallest struggles you face today. And he cares! He knows the intimate details of the strains on your relationships. And he cares! He knows everything big and small that is happening in your life. And he cares!
He offers you this reassurance: “I will always recognize you, and I will always care for you. So, don’t be afraid.” Remembering that as we go through our day, might just it a better day.

Keith Wishum is minister, Williams Road Church, Americus.