Birds and Lilies
Matthew 6:25-34
Pastor Jerry Koller

“Therefore” is an important word because it draws us back to something previously emphasized.
· Jesus uses this word three times in our text: in verses 25, 31, and 34.

The theme of this passage focuses on worry. It is mentioned 5 times (25, 27, 28, 31, 34)

The Greek word for worry is derived from a word that means to separate into parts or to split into factions.
· to divide the mind into sections and compartments

Jesus said, “I tell you.” Here we see Jesus speaking with authority.
· Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear.
· Life is a reference to our existence.
· It included all of our being—mind, body, and soul.

“Isn’t food and drink essential to life itself?”
· Worrying about them will not prolong our lives.

God is the author of man’s splendor for we are God’s ultimate creation.
· We created in His image
· We are the only part of creation that is designed to live in relationship to Him.

Life is more important than food.
· The body is more important than clothing.
· The material or earthly things are not the most important things as far as life and body is concerned.

What is most important to us?
· What are we seeking?
· What are we pursuing?
· Our primary concerns must be on living according to kingdom principles with an eternal view.
· There is a life to come.
· Eternal life only comes through Jesus.

· Those outside the kingdom of God are not concerned about spiritual things or about kingdom living.
· Stop living like those who do not have faith in God.

How do we keep worry under control?

Anxiety is often driven by a feeling that we are not in control.

There are some “firsts” that we must be aware of as we live our lives.
· The word “first” reflects sequence.
· The word “first” also reflects priority.
· The word “first” also reflects time: immediately!

Together let us continue to live out our faith together—as kingdom citizens—for the glory and honor of our King.

· Bruce & Vasha Ferguson and their family upon the death of their niece, Melissa Thompson, on 1/15. Please keep her husband, four children and only brother in prayer as well.
· Norman Forrest (friend of Bruce & Vasha Ferguson) who is grieving the loss of his wife, Vicki, on 1/14.
· Jim Seagren (friend of Stan Robinson) has liver and pancreatic cancer. He has an appointment at U of M Hospital today to see if there are any other treatment options available.
· Gena Bassett is asking for prayer that she can find a new job that is more suitable for her as a single mom; particularly one in which she can work Monday-Friday during the day and have weekends off. Please pray for a solution and if you're aware of any job openings, please let her know.
· Robert Pranger (Tracy Marshall's stepdad) who lost his father on 12/29 due to COVID. This has been an especially difficult year for him as he lost his mother very unexpectedly to cancer earlier this year as well.
· Steve Follman is recovering from surgery for a total knee replacement.
· Rafael & Rachel Cabrera (friends of Bob & Kim Collins) are recovering from kidney transplant operations. Both are home and doing well.
· Randy Follman (brother of Steve Follman) is recovering from hip replacement surgery.
· Deborah Kirby (Vasha Ferguson's sister) is in a rehab center following a massive stroke in July 2020. Pray that medicare/medicaid insurance can be upgraded to cover needed treatment. Her recovery is slowly progressing and although it is greatly painful, she is gaining movement on the left side with the help of therapy.
· Lynn Rarick continues to deal with hip issues. Pray that a resolution can be figured out.
· Check out our monthly prayer card on-line at southhavenfbc.com under “Weekly Bulletins” for a list of those with on-going needs.

First Baptist Church
1635 76th Street
South Haven, MI 49090
269-637-1291
southhavenfbc@gmail.com