GOD’S KINGDOM OVER MAN’S
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”
Matthew 6:33-34 (ESV)
If you read the preceding verses to Matthew 6:33-34, you see that Jesus is discussing God’s provision. He’s referring specifically to clothes and food, and draws on nature to show God’s goodness in providing the essentials for all creation. If the God of the universe intimately cares about birds and grass, imagine how much He cares about you! If He’s able and willing to give the lowliest of creations and creatures what they need, why are you so worried?
Hopefully, you can think of plenty of times when God came through for you, when He provided just the right person or thing at the right time. In that moment, you can’t imagine ever doubting God again. He just came through, so how could you ever think otherwise? But that was yesterday, and today has insurmountable problems, with tomorrow looking even more uncertain. The pressure builds, your head spins, the problems and busyness persist, and the doubt grows. Sure, God came through yesterday, but today’s been a whirlwind. God, where are You, and will I struggle with this forever?
There’s a saying that can clarify the spiral we can experience: Guilt is an attempt to control the past. Anxiety is an attempt to control the future. How many of our worries and fears ultimately result from our desire to control the world around us? Our worries and fears are based on real issues that need to be addressed, but we’re often so focused on asserting or regaining control that we lose sight of the simple truth: control is an illusion.
Everything in our lives comes from God. Everything that crosses our path, lands in our grip or slips through our fingers—all from His storehouse of riches. It’s easier said than done, but instead of focusing on what God isn’t doing, appreciate what He is providing today.
APPLICATION: What’s something causing you anxiety right now? Take a moment to confess your need to control that thing and pray for a greater trust in God with it. Ask Him to take it from you and to help you focus on what He wants for you today.
PRAYER: God, help my unbelief! I have such a short memory when it comes to Your provision and faithfulness. Strengthen my trust in You, and help me see what You’re doing today. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?