Matthew 6:25-34; cf. Luke 12:22-31
Our Bible reading for today is Matthew 6:25-34.
[25] 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? [26] Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns—and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? [27] Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
[31] Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ [32] …your heavenly Father knows that you need them. [33] But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.
Studies reveal that in 21st-century America, more than 40 million adults take drugs to fight depression and anxiety. Among other drugs, they take Zoloft, Prozac, and Xanax. This number does not include the millions of others who use alcohol to deal with anxiety. In today’s reading, we are called to trust God and not worry. Jesus urges us to release our anxieties and place our faith in God’s care.
For many, the notion of not worrying about daily necessities feels irresponsible. However, Jesus invites us to a life grounded in faith, where security lies not in material possessions, but in unwavering trust in God’s providence.
He directly instructs us, “Therefore Do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?'” He offers reassurance, reminding us, “Your heavenly Father knows that you need them.”
The essence of his teaching lies in seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness first, with the promise that all our essential needs will be met.
Lonnie Davis