Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest? Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well. Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Luke 12:22-34 (NIV)
This is a tall order. Do not be concerned about food and clothes. Thinking about not taking thought will take considerable time and meditation. Note that this passage isn’t a group of commands. Rather, it is an example of reasoning . . . think it through. Jesus certainly didn’t mean for us to be lazy or irresponsible.
Consider the Lord’s positive statements. Life consists of more than eating food. The body is more important than the clothes one wears. To God, we are more important than the birds that fly around our lawns and he has graciously provided for them.
A person cannot add time to his/her life or inches to his/her height. Jesus asks, “Since you cannot do this little thing, why concern yourself about the rest?” God takes care of the birds and he will take care of you.
Unbelievers worry about and chase after natural things of this life. Believers have higher goals. Believers are concerned about the Kingdom of God. Believers do not allow fear to drive our lives. Our faith is in God. He will give us the kingdom! Our hearts are focused on our heavenly treasure!
Dear Father, thank you for your treasure of grace and mercy. Empower us with a focused concern for your kingdom. Enable us to be examples for others. This I pray in Jesus’ name. AMEN
Let us praise God for his Kingdom and make it our main concern,