June 6, 2021
Devotional Reading: Ezekiel 34:11-16
Background Scripture: Matthew 6:19-34
Key Verse: Matthew 6:32b-33
Introduction
Worry worry worry; we all at times have been called “worry warts.” The bible instructs us in how to handle worry, “Therefore, I say unto you, take no thought for your life, what you will eat or what you will drink nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?” Yet, we worry about everything (finances, children, loved ones, food, shelter, etc.). Easier said than done, right; let us begin our journey.
I. More Than Birds (Matthew 6:25-27)
Worry appears in the form of survival during biblical days (most people did not have disposable income). Yet, for the person who knows and believes in the true God, their perspective differs from those who do not know God. Bird’s fly without baggage (worry), they eat what is provided by God and fly away. If God can provide for the birds, will He not provide for the people created in His image?
We, being of greater intelligence (if you will) can trust and have faith in knowing that God will take care of us. Therefore, worry is not profitable (does not add anything to life) but stress, lost of sleep, appetite, short tempers, and feeling hopeless.
II. More Than Flowers (Matthew 6:28-30)
Unlike flowers (naked, but beautiful), we need clothing (raiment). In biblical days, only the wealthy owned much more clothing than a single garment. Those with only one garment were lowly in status, poor. Today, we have designer versus Goodwill or Walmart clothing. Does clothing make the people beautiful or do the people make clothing beautiful? Thank God clothing does not determine who gets into Heaven!
Solomon was known as the wealthiest and wisest king on earth when he ruled Israel. Yet, in all his splendor, it did not compare to the beauty of flowers. When the seasons change, we see flowers die, grass and leaves turn brown, fall off but then spring comes, flowers are in full bloom, grass and trees are green again (new life). Therefore, can we not trust that God will care and provide for His creation (us) in the same manner?
III. Trusting God (Matthew 6:31-34)
In other words, “Take no thought” does not mean ignore common sense planning but rather do not worry resulting in anxiety. We can only do so much in preparation but while preparing in securing what we can, leave the rest to God (trust and believe) that He will take care of you. He already knows what we need and when we need it. Replace worry with faith, we are to be focused not on providing for ourselves but on serving, obeying, and sharing the word of God. Seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness, when we do that, “All these things shall be added unto you.”
We do not know what tomorrow holds, let along the future, only God knows – there is enough that can happen in one day. Again, the focus is not on the uncertainty but rather the current/present day. Jesus wants us to be obedient “now” and not anxious about “later.”
Conclusion
Worry does not prolong life and keep us in good health. Only God’s provision can sustain us through the trials of life. So as the song goes, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.”
” Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
Isaiah 41:10
Be Blessed,
Sis. Mary Turner