Therefore do not worry or be anxious (perpetually uneasy, distracted), saying, ‘What are we going to eat?’ or ‘What are we going to drink?’ or ‘What are we going to wear?’ For the [pagan] Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; [but do not worry,] for your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also. “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” – Matthew 6:31-34 (AMP)
In the previous blog, we learnt that there’s nothing wrong or sinful about having assets such as retirement pension plans, a property portfolio, life insurance and so on. The problem comes when we allow these assets to dominate our life. When we prioritise the acquisition and possession of assets over God and the things of the Kingdom, then we open ourselves to worry and anxiety.
Another cause for worry and anxiety is the issue of food, clothing and generally the care of the body.
I was told of a brother-in-law who, when he was growing up while having one meal would often ask his mother, “So, what are we going to eat tomorrow?” The fact that he’s still in the present day and eating, he seemed to be more concerned and worrying about the next day.
Jesus cautioned that we should not heap tomorrow’s troubles unto the present day and that the present day has enough trouble of its own. He said, “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
In terms of the welfare of the body, we have unfortunately been sold a lie by the corporate world. We are often bombarded by advertisements about how we can look good by eating certain foods, taking certain supplements, and wearing or using certain make-ups or cosmetics. Some have even gone as far as suggesting undergoing a procedure can make us look much younger or more good-looking. This is pure consumerism, a myth and commercial nonsense.
Jesus said, “Has anyone by fussing in front of the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? All this time and money wasted on fashion—do you think it makes that much difference? Instead of looking at the fashions, walk out into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They never primp or shop, but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them.” Matthew 6:27-29 (MSG)
Jesus’ admonishment highlights that material things offer no security since they are themselves prone to destruction. He admonished that we must not worry about the basic needs of life for such worry emanate from little faith. Instead, we should recognise that our heavenly Father is able and willing to provide for all of our needs.
Jesus’ admonition is that we give our full allegiance and devotion to God and the things of the Kingdom. As we dedicate and invest ourselves in the work of God here on earth, we will be freed from all anxiety regarding the future.
This is His antidote to worry and anxiety.
Stay blessed,
LaraLex
Hills and Valleys 