Following Jesus Through MatthewSample

What is it that keeps you awake at night? Maybe you lie awake worrying about your kids, money, conflict in relationships, dating, or doubting God. Here in Matthew 6, Jesus addresses worry as well.

We often separate Scripture into small, manageable chunks. When we do that, though, we sometimes miss the big picture. In verses 25-34, Jesus addresses worry, but in the verses just before, he speaks about how we view money. These two topics go together, don’t they? When speaking about our view of money, Jesus tells us to not put all our focus, all our trust, in the money we save up or the many things we can buy. All of this will one day disintegrate into piles of rust and moth-eaten cloth. Instead, we should focus on the spiritual good we can do with our money.

What we think about money, and how we choose to use it, will directly affect how we deal with everyday needs. Jesus doesn’t say food and clothing are not important. He says we shouldn’t worry about it. Why? Because God knows what we need, and he’ll supply it. What should we focus on instead? “Seek first God’s kingdom. . .” As we focus on living a life pleasing to God, introducing others to Jesus, and together fully following him, we can live at peace, knowing that whether we have a lot or a little, God will give us everything we need.

Prayer: God, thank you for always providing for me and my family. Help me to trust you with my worries. Give me the strength to share your love with others and follow you. Amen.