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. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.’”
These reassuring words to believers clearly state that the King, God, understands and takes care of His citizens’ worries. He can provide, and He promises to take care of you.
Principle: You don’t need to worry about the necessities of life like earning a living. God will provide.
Church consultant Paul Borden gave helpful suggestions for worriers: “Start a worry list. Write down what you’re worried about the bills, your job, children or grandchildren, your health, the future of America, your personal future. Turn your worry list into a prayer list. Ask the Lord to work in those situations you’re concerned about. Pray specifically for your needs and depend on Him. Turn your prayer list into an action list. If you have any insight that there’s something you can do about your cares, do it. As we turn our worries into prayer and action,” Borden says, “paralyzing anxiety can be replaced by concern for the responsibilities of life.” Why not start your list right now?
Don’t fret about the future
Or be consumed by cares;
Instead take all your worries
And turn them into prayers.
What you have made a matter of prayer
Should cease to be a matter of care.
Discussion:
1. What specific problem have you most worried about in the past?
2. If it is no longer a concern, what happened to it?
3. If it is current, how often do you pray about it?
4. Review your priorities – what do they reveal about who you serve?