“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?’ Matthew 6:25 NIV
How many of us spend time worrying? We continue to do this even though we may have little control over the situation, yet we feel the need to fret over potential outcomes. Since March 2020, we have had many things that have invited us to worry: our health and our communities, churches, institutions, and, most recently, inflation.
While we can make plans and take precautions, ultimately, worrying about the outcome achieves nothing but add to our stress level. Jesus continues, “Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life.” (v. 27) Medical studies have shown that stress has the opposite effect; it shortens our life!
As God’s children, we have confidence he loves and cares for us and does not want us to spend time unnecessarily worrying. How do we know this is true? Because we have His promise, “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you.” (v. 33) He desires us to come to Him first, leave our cares, and solely place our trust in Him. We have the assurance that God will make sure we have everything we need.
God, we give you thanks for your love and compassion. Although we have absolute, unrefutable knowledge you will take care of us; we often choose to worry instead. Help us remember to come to you with all our worries and leave them with you. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
