January 06, 2023
Of all the things Jesus could have addressed in the Sermon on the Mount, it's fascinating that He spends a good bit of time warning against worry. In fact, He commands those of us who know Him to completely forsake this destructive habit.
“Do not be worried about your life.” (Mt. 6:25)
We are world-class worriers. God knows that this prevailing practice is insanely counterproductive. Not only is it useless, but it ties us up, destroys our faith, is a poor witness to those who are watching, and dishonors God. So, to help us, He gives us multiple reasons why we must not indulge in this destructive behavior.
THE OBJECTS OF OUR WORRY
Jesus delineates some of the things we should not worry about. Are you consumed with anxiety about any of these things?
THE RATIONALE REGARDING WORRY
Jesus explains that in His kingdom, worry is not needed. It is a life-consuming exercise. All of life is about faith, and at its heart, worry is simply unbelief—a lack of confidence in the One who knows our every need and has promised to take care of them all. Meditate on Jesus’ rationale about worry.
1. There are way more important things to do than worry.
"Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?" (vs. 25)
2. Your Father, who cares for birds and flowers, values you even more.
"Your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they?" (vs. 26, 28-30)
3. Worry changes nothing and destroys everythiing.
"And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life?" (vs. 27)
4. Your Father is "previous” andis making provisions before you ask Him.
"For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things." vs. 32
5. Your Father has promised to meet every need if you seek His kingdom FIRST.
"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (vs. 33)
6. Today has enough troubles, so don't speculate about tomorrow.
"Each day has enough trouble of its own." (vs. 34)
7. Your Father is not just any dad … He's the One who holds all the resources of heaven and earth in His hands!
“Your Heavenly Father" (vs. 26, 32)
God has the means to powerfully and perfectly do what you and others cannot. And He is eternally motivated by perfect love for His children.
Are you worried about anything today? Worry is a sin and a telling commentary about the state of your faith. It is sideways energy that destroys your days, creates unbelief in those around you, and keeps you from the calm, delightful trust that is your most compelling witness to a watching world.
Father, help me believe in You. Deliver me from a small view of your care and ability. Help me think more of You and lead me to a greater confidence in Your character. And even more, cleanse from ignoring You and Your kingdom. Refocus my life on what matters today, and let me illustrate to a worried world the sufficiency of our great Father.
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