And which of you by worrying, can add a single day to his life’s span?
Matthew 6:27 (NASB 2020)
In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus addressed the issue of worry or anxiety, primarily concerning food and clothing. For the people Jesus was addressing, those were significant concerns. Many of them lived from day to day. They did not have well-stocked pantries or closets full of clothes. Often, they just had the clothes they were wearing and, hopefully, enough food for the day.
Jesus encouraged them not to worry about those things. If God clothed the grass and flowers of the field and fed the birds of the air, was He not capable of feeding and clothing them?
This was not an invitation to sit back and do nothing, trusting that God will drop whatever you need into your lap. We do need to do what we can to provide for ourselves (2 Thess. 3:10). But we should not worry about things that we have no control over.
Trust God Rather than Worry
In some parts of the world today, people still struggle with the basic necessities of life. But many people, who otherwise live comfortably, worry about the economy, crime, health, global warming, and a myriad of other issues. And they are without a doubt concerns. But what will my worrying about them accomplish in resolving them?
Jesus’ challenge in this verse is very appropriate for us today when there is so much uncertainty in the world. What will my worrying accomplish? Can it extend my life or make me taller? Can it change any of those things that I have no control over? Can it accomplish anything positive?
Instead of worrying, do what you can do, and trust God for the rest. Don’t let worry take away your joy in the Lord.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all people. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:4-7 (NASB 2020)
