Our scripture this morning is Matthew 6:31-34.
“So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.”
This guidance from Jesus is part of the Sermon on the Mount, His first lessons to the crowds in Matthew. He teaches differently than the religious leaders of the time, emphasizing our relationship with God and one another. He preaches against the worry most people suffer in their lives, telling them that if they are connected to God, He will provide for them.
It is hard for us to understand the concept even today. Jesus isn’t saying “sit around and do nothing and what you need will drop into your lap”, but rather “give your worries to God and believe and He will make things happen.” Jesus and the disciples did the work God had laid out for them and by their faith they were provided with what they required.
It comes down to the statement “your Heavenly Father already knows your needs.” God is aware of every issue we face and knows what we really need, rather than what we think we need. We still have work to do, but God is with us always.
Gracious God, You have gifted us with skills and resources, but we need Your love to fuel our efforts. Bless us to be energetic disciples, telling everyone of the blessing of salvation. Amen.
