So then, don’t worry saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ For the unconverted pursue these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But above all pursue his kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. So then, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Today has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 6:31-34 NET
In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus taught his disciples about worry. In Jesus’ day, the most pressing concern for many of those he taught was their daily necessities, what they would eat and drink, and what they would wear. And in some places of the world today, those are still the most pressing concerns.
But many of us have pantries full of food and closets overflowing with clothes. However, that does not mean we do not have worries and concerns that can vie for our attention. Our world can be a dangerous and scary place, full of uncertainty.
Jesus taught his disciples not to worry about tomorrow and the daily necessities of life. But what he had to say has application to all those things that we find ourselves worrying about. The God who cares for the birds of the sky and flowers of the field also cares for me. And I can trust that he will provide for me, just like he does the birds and flowers.
God’s provision may not be what I think I need or what I want. And it will likely involve working to provide for those needs. There is also no guarantee that I will never experience suffering or deprivation. But I can, and should, trust that my loving Father will take care of me.
So, don’t worry about today’s needs or what tomorrow might bring. Trust God and his provision. And live today as faithful members of the kingdom of God, serving him and pursuing holiness.
