God Hears Us Prayنموونە

Consider the Birds

Jesus told us that we do not need to be anxious. Specifically, he mentions food, drink, and clothing. Most of us believe in trusting God. We're on board with Jesus' "don't be anxious" advice here. This will get us through much of life, but when life unravels, it's impossible not to worry. If you're having trouble paying for a vacation, earning a passing grade, or hoping for a promotion, you can take Jesus' advice easily enough. But if you're not sure where you'll find food, water, or clothing, then things are not okay! This is a desperate situation! Life and death! And yet it is precisely these fundamental elements that Jesus tells us not to worry about.

Why?

Look at the birds, he says. They're not actively trying to grow their own food, yet God feeds them. So you don't need to worry either. 

What is this logic? We see the birds flying around, presumably looking for food. But it's not at all obvious that God is the one feeding them. God has taught them to look for food, and—though it isn't clear to the onlooker—he ensures that they find what they need. It isn't a dramatic, noticeably miraculous act. But it is God's daily provision.

The logic here is to go ahead and tell God what you need rather than being anxious about it. Why? Because he cares about our needs, and he hears our prayers. Even if it doesn't seem like it.

Perhaps you look at your situation and can't see God working. That's okay. That's how it is with the birds as well. But God cares. And he's working, even when he doesn't appear to be claiming the credit.

He's listening. Whatever it is, talk to him about it right now.