This verse echoes Matthew 6:31-33, "So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your Heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Jesus told His disciples to not worry or be anxious about their lives, not even about basic necessities like food and clothing. Instead, observe the birds and how God takes care of them (who are not made in God's image) and know that God will certainly take care of us (who are much more valuable than the birds) and our needs. Simply and fully trust the faithful provision of our loving, caring, and omnipotent God. God not only creates life, but also sustains life. This verse is not an excuse for idleness. Wise planning and hard working are necessary but worrying is not.
We must also get our priorities straight. We must not let ourselves become preoccupied with the things of the world, including what to eat and what to wear. Some people go overboard with diets, exercises, and fashion. Their bodies become their idols. Put God first above all else. Life comes from God and the fullness of life comes from Jesus Christ, Who has overcome the world and Who gives us peace that surpasses all understanding. "Of all the priorities of life, seeking God's kingdom is number one. It is doing what you can to promote God's rule over His creation. That includes seeking Christ's rule to be manifest in your life through 'righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit' (Rom. 14:17). When the world sees those virtues in your life instead of worry, it's evidence that the kingdom of God is there." (John MacArthur)
"Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" (Matthew 6:27) Not only will we not lengthen our lives by worrying, but we will more likely shorten our lives by worrying. Worrying wastes our time and energy. It is counterproductive. It weakens us and makes us weary. It negatively affects our circulatory system, heart, glands, and nervous system. It weighs our heart down, causes our mind to wander aimlessly, and withers our soul. It paralyzes us. It ain't worth it! Those who don't know God as their Heavenly Father may have worries and seek after material things, but this should not be the case for us, His children. Jesus commands us not to worry; therefore, worry is a sin! The craving for control is a curse, burden, and disease. God is in control, not us. Let go of the illusion of control. Surrender all to God, pray, trust, and wait on Him.
"Casting all your care (anxiety) upon Him--because He cares for you!" (1 Peter 5:7) "The Lord knows all His people--all their needs, and all their trials. He thinks upon them--to bless, deliver and supply them. He keeps His eye upon them--in all places, at all times, and under all circumstances. He has them in His hand--and will not loosen His hold. It is a Father's care which He exercises. It is a wise, holy, tender, and constant care. Therefore all will be well with you--only trust Him." (James Smith) Since God knows our needs and He promises to supply, we have no reasons to worry whatsoever. Yahweh Jireh will provide what we need when we need it. God meets our daily needs daily (ex: manna and quail for each day in the wilderness). He wants us to trust His faithfulness. God is never too late. His grace suffices for each day. Trust God with every concern each and every day. Rest your full confidence in God! "If we can trust God for our eternal salvation, how can we not trust Him to provide for the "little" things of life?" (M.E.Howard)
Bottom Line: If God is enough for us, then we will always have enough because we will always have God. In other words, when all we have is God, we have all we need. Why worry? "I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him (Christ) Who gives me strength." (Philippians 4:12b-13)
Prayer: Abba Father, thank You for caring for my daily needs! Please help me remain focused on You as my Source of peace, hope, joy, and strength. Please teach me through challenging times to rest in Your faithfulness, grace, and power. Please fill me up with childlike faith so that I have no room for fears, worries, or doubts. In Jesus' Name, I pray. Amen.
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