Seeking God's Righteousness
Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. -Matthew 6:33-34
Frequent travelers understand the devastation fog sometimes causes on runways, highways, and shorelines. But few people realize that only a small glass of water can create enough fog to cover an entire acre. Similarly, a minimal amount of worry can wreak immense havoc in our lives. Just as thick fog can stop travelers in their tracks, heavy worry can paralyze us with the fear of "what if." Perhaps this is why Jesus spent so much time in the Sermon on the Mount addressing our anxieties.
And what is Jesus antidote to worry? Trusting God enough to seek His kingdom in all areas lives, knowing He will provide every need we have. When Jesus referred to "these things" being "added" to lives, He was alluding to His previous statements about food, water, clothing (6:24-32).
Our concern about basics like these is an insult to loving Father who willingly provides all that His children need.
The issue verses in 33-34 is one of lordship, not provision. Unbelievers seek to provide for themselves (6:32) because they don't view God as a Father who cares for them. Finding security in wealth is not, however, an option for those who belong to Christ (6:24) because they choose not to put their hope in God Himself, rather than in what He gives.
Prayer : Father, forgive me for allowing fear to diminish my trust in You. Increase my faith by enabling me to focus less on life's necessities and more on life's purpose. Help me to live for Your kingdom without distraction or fear. Amen.
Frequent travelers understand the devastation fog sometimes causes on runways, highways, and shorelines. But few people realize that only a small glass of water can create enough fog to cover an entire acre. Similarly, a minimal amount of worry can wreak immense havoc in our lives. Just as thick fog can stop travelers in their tracks, heavy worry can paralyze us with the fear of "what if." Perhaps this is why Jesus spent so much time in the Sermon on the Mount addressing our anxieties.
And what is Jesus antidote to worry? Trusting God enough to seek His kingdom in all areas lives, knowing He will provide every need we have. When Jesus referred to "these things" being "added" to lives, He was alluding to His previous statements about food, water, clothing (6:24-32).
Our concern about basics like these is an insult to loving Father who willingly provides all that His children need.
The issue verses in 33-34 is one of lordship, not provision. Unbelievers seek to provide for themselves (6:32) because they don't view God as a Father who cares for them. Finding security in wealth is not, however, an option for those who belong to Christ (6:24) because they choose not to put their hope in God Himself, rather than in what He gives.
Prayer : Father, forgive me for allowing fear to diminish my trust in You. Increase my faith by enabling me to focus less on life's necessities and more on life's purpose. Help me to live for Your kingdom without distraction or fear. Amen.
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