Dave's Diary

Prayer

Before you read, I invite you to pray this prayer based on Psalm 119:51-52

Lord, even when others misunderstand me, and even when they mock,
I am determined not to turn from your ways
Help me to remember your ancient laws, and to find comfort in them. Amen.

Briefly prepare your heart in silence, and ask the Holy Spirit to awaken your awareness to the voice of God, coming to you through His Word.

Reading

Matthew 6:25-34 

What connects today’s reading to the last two days is verse 33:

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

Jesus teaches that when we make it our absolute priority to pursue the Kingdom of God (i.e. His perfect rule and reign in our lives) and His righteousness (i.e. a lifestyle that pleases Him), we will find that everything else falls into place by God’s grace.

Jesus points out how senseless it is to make a “longer life” our top priority because we can’t actually add a single hour to our lives by worrying about it. Instead, He commands, “Do NOT worry!” Note well: It is good to care for our bodies and physical health, but it is pointless to be anxious and worried about them.

²⁵ ‘Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear …”

And He points out, yet again, how senseless it is to make material things our top priority and source of security. Instead He commands, “Do not WORRY” about these things and calls us instead to TRUST our Heavenly Father completely. Again we need to note well: It is good, right and godly to work diligently to provide for ourselves and our loved ones in God-honouring ways, but it is pointless to be anxious and worried about the outcome.

³¹ So do not worry, saying, “What shall we eat?” or “What shall we drink?” or “What shall we wear?” ³² For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.

As if to sum it all up, Jesus ends by teaching:

³⁴ Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Jesus promises us that God will provide for our needs and will strengthen us for each day as it comes, and so He commands us NOT to worry but to rest in the loving care of the LORD.

Contemplation

Please take time to ponder what Jesus has commanded us. Turn these declarations over in your mind. Keep them in mind throughout the day and live in step with Your King, Jesus.

As a disciple of Jesus Christ: 

• I will refuse to allow my life to be ruled by worry;
• I will trust my Father’s care.

Lord, I confess how easy it is for me to worry, and I entrust myself to Your gracious care. Please fill me with Your peace and drive out fear and worry. Amen.